Pioneering Tech and Advocacy: The Inspiring Journey of Angelica Ross
We all love Angelica Ross for her versatile acting skills but did you know about her inspiring story of becoming a businesswoman and transgender rights advocate? From her groundbreaking roles in TV, to her transformative work pushing for transgender inclusion in the tech field, Ross’ journey is a testament to the power of grit and perseverance. Get to know more about her with us.
Early Roots
Angelica Ross was born in Wisconsin, USA and raised in Racine by her mother until the age of 17, when Ross came out as Gay. After completing high school, Ross joined the U.S. Navy to secure a G.I. Bill to fund her college education, where however she could not continue because of the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” era, which prohibited openly gay, lesbian, or bisexual individuals from serving in the military.
Ross’s journey became even more challenging as she opted for gender transition at the age of 19. To support her education, she worked in different roles, sometimes as waitress, sometimes as model while pursuing her self-taught journey into coding and tech. She quickly mastered graphic design, photo editing, and web development and started a web development and graphic design business.
Her experiences highlighted the limitations of social services at the time, which often failed to provide trans individuals with real pathways to employment. Determined to make a difference, she envisioned a programme that would offer tangible skills and opportunities to the LGBTQ+ community.
Overcoming Challenges and Founding TransTech Social Enterprises
In 2014, Ross founded TransTech Social Enterprises, a nonprofit organisation dedicated to empowering transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals through technology training and opportunities. TransTech’s mission is to dismantle elitist barriers in tech and create a supportive environment where marginalised individuals can thrive.
Its launch was not easy however, with funding issues forcing Ross to sleep in her office and shower at the gym.
“Most of the time, my bank accounts were negative…but TransTech’s bills were always paid.
Nevertheless, Ross’ commitment to creating a space for marginalised communities and closing the wealth gap for LGBTQ+ workers and people of colour in the tech industry pushed her forward.
Today, TransTech boasts a full-time executive director and partnerships with major corporations like JPMorgan Chase & Co., Google, and The Linux Foundation. These collaborations provide members with access to certifications and job opportunities in cybersecurity and other tech fields, bridging the gap between LGBTQ+ workers and inclusive technology.
Breaking Barriers in Hollywood
Alongside her work in the technology sphere, Angelica Ross’s contributions also extend culturally. With her stellar performances in “Pose” and “American Horror Story”, Ross made history as the first transgender woman to secure regular roles in two major TV series, using her platform and lived experiences to tell authentic stories and advocate for better trans representation in media.
In 2017, at the 28th Annual GLAAD Media Awards in New York, Trevor Noah and Angelica Ross accepted the award for Outstanding Talk Show, highlighting the importance of listening to trans stories and perspectives. Ross accepted the award on behalf of the entire trans community saying
“Your dreams matter, your stories matter and your lives matter.
Championing Trans Rights and Inclusion
Ross’s advocacy is not confined to her work in tech and entertainment. She has used her voice to push for legislative changes and social justice, delivering the LGBTQ State of the Union address and calling on President Biden and Congress to pass the Equality Act and protect transgender youth.
Today she continues to work with TransTech, where she hosts the annual TransTech Summit. This free, online event attracts thousands of participants every year from around the world and covers a wide range of topics, from coding careers to social justice. Ross ensures that the summit is accessible to all, emphasising the importance of diversity, representation, and inclusion in tech.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Angelica Ross aims to further break down the barriers that hinder marginalised communities from succeeding in tech. “I want to see women, LGBTQ people, and marginalised folks from all over the world coming together under the umbrella of TransTech,” she says.
“We can create a front of solidarity that cannot be broken.
Ross’s journey with TransTech Social Enterprises and her advocacy in media and beyond, is helping to shape a more inclusive and equitable future. She is not just a trailblazer; she is a symbol of hope and a catalyst for change, inspiring countless individuals to pursue their dreams and make a difference.
– Written by Natalie Brabben for Spring ACT
