Damian Joseph Bridgeman
Director, Writer, and Teacher in Gileston, Barry, UK
Damian Joseph Bridgeman
Director, Writer, and Teacher in Gileston, Barry, UK
Hello, I’m Damian Joseph Bridgeman. Born into a Romany family in Wales, I overcame physical challenges to champion co-production, inclusive technology, and community-driven policy. My activism, shaped by lived experiences, stands as a testament to the belief that empathy and shared purpose fuel innovation. My background includes a BA (Hons) in Community Studies (Health & Social Care), an MSc in Pediatrics and Child Health, a PGCE, and an ILM Level 7 in Coaching & Mentoring. These qualifications helped me shape major Welsh legislation—like the Social Services and Well-being Act (2014) and the Regulation and Inspection of Social Care (Wales) Act (2016)—to keep disability rights at the forefront of policy. I developed a screen-reading tool for dyslexia, now used by over 250 million people worldwide, working with Google, Microsoft, and Apple to ensure accessibility. I also led sepsis training for social care staff in Wales and beyond, helping to save lives through proactive education. Dedicated to nurturing entrepreneurship, I’ve invested in fifteen companies, securing three million pounds to bring a wheelchair manufacturer to Wales. Currently, I serve as Deputy Chair of the RSA Fellowship Council and Director of Freedom 365, advocating authentic leadership, open dialogue, and fearless collaboration. My best-selling autobiography, studied in four universities, illustrates how resilience, cultural identity, and genuine conversation can ignite broader social impact. As a proud LGBTQ+ advocate, I share my life with my husband, Paul Bridgeman—a fellow change-maker—and our dog, Lottie, in the Vale of Glamorgan. Reflecting my Romany roots and Welsh identity, I believe bridging gaps through compassion, co-production, and unwavering commitment can lead to real progress. In every endeavor, I strive to foster partnerships that transcend boundaries, honoring our shared humanity and the power of inclusive innovation. My philosophy is that by uniting diverse perspectives, we can pioneer solutions that resonate globally. I invite you to celebrate the potential of mindful communication and meaningful cooperation. Through legislation, technology, and social initiatives, we’ve expanded what’s possible, opening doors for others to follow. Let’s harness our collective determination to shape a future where everyone can flourish. Thank you for sharing in my journey—may it remind you that, with a single purposeful step, we can each light the spark of lasting change.