Martha is an inspiring entrepreneur currently studying at Utah Valley University, where she is completing a minor in Entrepreneurship. As a woman with autism, she has faced unique challenges, channeling her experiences into a passion for creating a supportive business environment for others on the spectrum.
She envisions a storefront dedicated to helping individuals with autism find meaningful employment in various fields. Her motivation stems from witnessing the high unemployment rates and discrimination faced by adults with autism. Comments like "you can't do that" or "you don’t belong here" have fueled her determination to break free from those limiting beliefs.
Diagnosed with PDD-NOS in her early 30s, Martha has always recognized her distinct approach to life. She believes autism has endowed her with tenacity, focus, and a logical mindset—qualities essential for her entrepreneurial journey. Throughout her studies, she has learned that grit and determination are key to success, traits she has developed through her personal experiences.
Currently, Martha is in her final semester at Utah Valley University, completing 9 credits and taking the last three classes needed for her minor. One of her classes, Venture Funding, has encouraged her to explore grants to help start her business.
Receiving her diagnosis provided clarity and a label for her experiences, allowing her to understand herself better. She knew there was something different about her throughout her life, and the diagnosis helped her recognize why she behaves the way she does. Although it has been misinterpreted by some as a limitation, Martha sees it as a strength that has equipped her with tenacity and focus—traits her mother has always praised in her.
In her entrepreneurial journey, Martha is actively developing a comprehensive business model while seeking funding and working to attract investors. Her goal by the end of the semester is to file for an LLC and gain knowledge on establishing a non-profit. In Phase 1, she plans to sell her handmade jewelry, accessories, and clothing both online and at farmers markets and craft shows. She has already created several pendants and is excited about the endless possibilities ahead.
Ultimately, Martha dreams of opening a physical storefront that showcases products made by individuals with autism, including artwork, jewelry, clothing, and food items. She aims to foster an inclusive environment and believes it would be hypocritical to solely hire people with autism. Instead, she plans to educate her community on how to best interact with autistic individuals while also employing allies as her business grows.
In pursuit of her goals, Martha is actively seeking funding for art shows and farmers markets, as well as lapidary equipment to ensure she has control over her product creation. Living in Utah, she has access to numerous rock-hounding locations, but some require fees. She is considering joining a local rock club or finding ways to access these sites independently. Additionally, she hopes to upgrade her car, which is nearing the end of its lifespan.
As she prepares to participate in events like Fan X in Salt Lake City, Martha aims to network with other artists and entrepreneurs, further enriching her knowledge and skills. She believes that by sharing her journey, she can dispel myths surrounding autism and promote a more inclusive understanding of the diverse talents within the autistic community.
Through her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to supporting others, Martha is building not just a business, but also a legacy of empowerment and awareness. In pursuing her dreams, she is creating opportunities for herself and paving the way for others in the autistic community. Her journey reflects resilience, innovation, and a commitment to fostering inclusivity. By challenging societal perceptions and advocating for the talents of individuals with autism, she aims to transform the landscape of employment and inspire others to embrace their unique abilities. As she continues to build her business, her story serves as a powerful reminder that determination and creativity can drive meaningful change.
About the Author:
Mada Salamah