S3 E13: Samantha Ong on the need for representation in toys, colorism in Asian culture, and how her culturally accurate dolls sold out on launch day.

https://nuancespod.com/2023/09/10/samantha-ong/

GUEST BIO

Samantha Ong is an entrepreneur, business owner, and mother to two young girls based in Toronto, Canada. Samantha founded Joeydolls in response to the rise in anti-Asian hate around the world during the pandemic lockdowns. Her goal is to help young children feel proud of their heritage and feel valued in society by creating diverse Asian cultural dolls that celebrate every culture. As the founder and CEO of Joeydolls, Samantha is on a mission to provide a representation of Asian culture in a cute and playful way and also deconstruct both racism and colorism. Joeydolls are designed to be a child's friend for life, with soft and cuddly bodies, and culturally accurate attire. She hopes the dolls will help create more awareness and education around Asian culture and diversity..

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DEFINITIONS

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MENTIONED

• Children notice race several years before adults want to talk about it

TAKEAWAYS

1. Better done than perfect. At some point perfectionism gets in the way of the positive impact you could already be having on your community.
2. Kids internalize concepts of race and belonging as early as 10 months old, so feeling represented as early as possible is important.
3. Entrepreneurship keeps you on your toes, no matter how prepared, so might as well jump in if you have an idea you believe in.
4. Telling expecting parents you hope their kids have certain physical features is hurtful.
5. Colorism in Asian culture is very real. If you see this in your family, gently remind them that the child will be loved and welcome no matter what they look like.

CONTACT

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Host: Lazou

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