Gemma Oakley

Gemma Oakley has turned her life around after a difficult childhood. Gemma started a sewing journey during Covid as a way of coping with her mental health problems. She provided cotton sewn face masks and headbands for the NHS staff. She then started volunteering to help people in similar situations as herself, teaching them how to sew, which helped with loneliness and mental health issues.
After four years of volunteering, she decided to take the plunge and started her own business in the Hand Hotel.

Wrexham Sewing Studio provides advise and offers alterations on garments at affordable prices, they also make things from scratch.

Many nominations have come in for Gemma, telling us how she has completely transformed her life and is a true inspiration to all that change is possible. She goes above and beyond for everyone.

She has raised nearly £2000 running charity bingos and a race night to buy a special buggy and car seat for a disabled child. She created a memory unicorn for a premature baby girl. She holds sewing classes for kids, volunteers all the time helping the community. During Prom week, altered many dresses, makes handmade clothes for children, community bunting, cushion covers, and creates opportunities for younger people, teaching them how to sew.

Gemma is a true inspiration to everyone, well done!