AAPI Small Business Series: By Yobe Qiu
Hello and welcome to the eighth installment of our monthly series "Supporting AAPI Small Businesses!" We at Joeydolls are thrilled to celebrate the amazing accomplishments of AAPI small business owners and to support them. Today is a special day as we introduce you to the inspiring story of By Yobe Qiu. Today's blog walks through her business journey as a renowned Asian children's books author. Yobe is an award-winning author, educator, and entrepreneur dedicated to diversifying children's literature through her books.
We strongly believe that supporting small businesses is essential for building a robust and stable economy. By highlighting talented AAPI small business leaders like Yobe, our primary goal is to help them reach a wider audience and witness their businesses flourish.
Now on this thrilling voyage and immerse yourself in the borderless universe of By Yobe Qiu. Let's all raise a glass to the perseverance, commitment, and prodigious ingenuity that Yobe and other AAPI small company owners exhibit every day. So without further ado, let's start this thrilling encounter and explore Yobe's epic adventure's compelling tale by providing representation for Asian children's books.
Tell Us About Yourself & What Does Your Company Do?
Good day, everyone! My name is Yobe, and I'm an award-winning author, educator, and entrepreneur. My path has led me to establish several preschools in New York, and I am deeply committed to promoting diversity and inclusion through literature.
As an educator, I have become acutely aware of the underrepresentation of the Asian community in children's books. This inspired me to take action and publish three series with a total of nine books, each dealing with Asian children, families and their life culture. I am pleased that many of these books have been recognized and featured in major media publications.
My mission is clear; I deal with the diversification of children's literature. I visit schools virtually and in person throughout the year to achieve this. Through author visits, school reunions and workshops, I try to engage young minds and spread the message of inclusivity.
Some of my titles, like Our Lunar New Year, Asian Adventures, and "I'm a Great Asian"; Readers and schools well received it. I am proud that these books are becoming favourites and reflect the rich diversity of the Asian community. If you want to contact me and learn more about my work, please email hello@byyobeqiu.com.Let's continue this wonderful journey together!
How Long Have You Been Working, and How Did It All Start?
I started my business in 2019 by asking a simple question to my teachers associated with the schools I have worked with. During our discussions of various winter holidays such as Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and the New Year, I realized that there were very few books for the Lunar New Year. Most of the books only focused on the Chinese New Year, which prompted me to address this lack of depiction. I wanted all students in our program to feel included, so I decided to take matters into my own hands and publish a book that inclusively represents our community.
Our community is incredibly rich and diverse, and it was essential to have a book that reflected this diversity. So, my journey as an author and entrepreneur began with the goal of making children's literature more inclusive and diverse, starting with the representation of Lunar New Year.
What Challenges Have You Faced Running This Business and a Small Asian Business?
As the owner of an AAPI small business, I faced several challenges. One of the biggest obstacles has been getting our books and missions out to a wider audience, such as schools, libraries, and organizations. Even though I've been lucky to have support from moms and teachers who share my interest, we're always looking for ways to speed up the process of making more children's books available in the U.S. and Canada.
How Do You Assess the Changing Industrial Landscape?
I realize there is still a long way to go in educating readers about our communities. Days off, given the changing nature of the industry. However, I firmly believe that fostering Asian love and inclusion is essential to this transformation. I'm excited to be part of this shift in the industry landscape, starting with the youngest minds.
What Do You Like Best About Your Company?
One of the things I enjoy most about my job is my strong dedication to its mission. I truly love hearing from readers, particularly parents and educators, about how my books taught us about our wonderful communities.
What Are Your Hopes and Dreams for Your Business?
I have ambitious hopes and dreams for my business. My goal is for my products to be displayed in major retail stores and eventually read in every school across America to contribute to a more diverse literary environment.
How Can We Accompany and Support You Better?
For those who want to follow and support me, the best thing is to participate in my work and share it with others. You can find updates and contact me on different platforms.
So, follow us on,
- Facebook: @byyobeqiu
- Instagram: @byyobeqiu
- Website: www.byyobeqiu.com
Is There Anything Else You Would Like to Share?
Finally, I'm always open to collaboration. Collaborating with like-minded individuals and organizations can increase the impact of our efforts and contribute to positive change.