Gina Awad

Gina Awad has worked alongside people living with dementia and those who love and support them for over a decade, offering a relational, reflective approach grounded in everyday life. She founded and led the Exeter Dementia Action Alliance from 2014 to 2025, working across communities, with services and families, to strengthen collaboration, understanding and dignity. Her work is shaped by lived experience and a commitment to listening closely to what matters most to people. Gina is the author of United: Caring for Our Loved Ones Living with Dementia, illustrated by Tony Husband. United was selected as one of twenty publications for the Reading Well for Dementia recommended book list in 2024. She is also the host of ‘Living Better with Dementia’ on Exeter community radio station Phonic 106.8 FM, a voluntary role she has held for over ten years, creating space for honest conversation, shared learning and lived voices. Her contribution to dementia care and community work has been recognised nationally, including the honour of a British Empire Medal. Recently trained as an independent life celebrant, Gina supports individuals and families to create meaningful end-of-life tributes. She is also a carer representative for the Royal College of Psychiatrists’ Memory Services National Accreditation Programme. Gina believes planning ahead for care, loss and life transitions allows people to remain true to themselves while easing the burden on those they love. Her work is rooted in compassion and presence. Gina’s passions for travel, culture, the arts, astrology, writing, personal growth and walking inform both her work and her life. She lives in Devon with her cockapoo River, and is the proud mum of her son Alex, whom she cherishes.