Gwendolyn Jones was born and raised in Freeport, Texas. Gwendolyn is a descendant of Africans who were enslaved on the Levi Jordan Plantation and Varner Plantation. The labor of Gwendolyn's ancestors was exploited to build significant wealth in Brazoria County. In high school, Gwendolyn participated in a vocational program where she attended school for part of the day and worked in the petrochemical plant the later part of the day. During this time, there were limited opportunities for young people in Brazoria County. 

Gwendolyn graduated from Brazosport High School. After high school, Gwendolyn earned two associate degrees in business and science from Brazosport Junior College. After graduating from college, Gwendolyn held various positions in the petrochemical industry. These included research and development, process operations, process analysis, safety, lab technician, and maintenance clerk. 

Her experience in the petrochemical industry allowed her to understand the dangers of the chemicals it releases into the air, water, and ground. Gwendolyn would later realize that most incinerators and chemical plants were in the East End of Freeport, Texas. She began to become concerned about the rate of illness and death in her community and family. 

Today, Gwendolyn is an advocate for environmental justice. She is on a mission to educate the people of Freeport and Brazoria County about the imminent environmental injustice harming her community. As a result, she is a strong advocate for her community and all communities impacted by environmental and social injustice.