Hello, and welcome to my little corner of the internet! My name is Gemma Ortwerth, and my journey has been anything but ordinary. From navigating the challenges of disability and systemic inequality to transitioning from retail to social work and creative advocacy, my life has been a patchwork of resilience, creativity, and purpose.
I spent years in retail management, honing skills in leadership, customer relations, and problem-solving. But the more I worked within the system, the clearer it became: capitalism often exploits both consumers and employees, and I couldn’t ignore the toll it was taking on my values and well-being. Eventually, my disability made working in retail impossible, forcing me to reevaluate my path and consider how I could make a meaningful difference in the world.
That’s when I realized my calling wasn’t in selling products—it was in advocating for people. I enrolled in a Master’s in Social Work program at Capella University, where I’m currently learning how to address systemic inequities and support underserved communities. Social work allows me to channel my passion for equity into actionable change, and it’s a field where my lived experiences as a disabled, autistic, transgender woman provide unique insights.
As someone who believes in the power of systemic reform, I also plan to pursue a master’s in legal studies after completing my MSW. This additional degree will enhance my ability to advocate for policy changes that truly address the needs of marginalized communities. By combining the compassionate perspective of social work with the precision of legal studies, I hope to bridge the gap between advocacy and action.
Alongside my academic journey, I’m a published author and visual artist. My books, including The Dreamer Saga and The Actual Queer Agenda, explore themes of resilience, identity, and social justice. My art has been shared on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, and I continue to use my creative work as a tool for storytelling and advocacy.
At the heart of everything I do is a commitment to empowering others. Whether through writing, art, or policy reform, my goal is to create a world where everyone—especially those from marginalized communities—feels seen, valued, and supported.
Thank you for stopping by and taking the time to learn a little about me. If my journey resonates with you or if you’d like to connect, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can imagine and build a better, more equitable future.
With warmth and determination,
Gemma
Gemma Ortwerth 
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