AAPI Small Business : Tigerboom Creative
Absolutely! For our 19th AAPI Small Business Spotlight, we're thrilled to introduce Katie Cadamatre, the founder behind Tigerboom Creative and Cadamini Books! Katie, a Korean adoptee raised in a multicultural household, is passionate about making the Korean language and culture accessible to everyone.
Tell us about yourself & what your business does.
I was born in Seoul and adopted when I was three months old. Growing up, I didn’t have a lot of exposure to Korean culture (or, really any Asian culture.) As a non-native adoptee, with a mixed family, we incorporate Korean language and culture as best we can with food, holidays, music, and shows. The goal of Tigerboom Creative and Cadamini Books is to help build language in a way anyone feels comfortable regardless of “level” or how they identify as a Korean. (I’ve learned, that being “Korean” means something different to everyone.)
How long have you been in business and how did it all begin?
When I became a mom I discovered how difficult it was to find Korean books, toys, and resources for our family. Exposing my children to Korean was important from the beginning. But, the more I tried to find it, the more frustrated I became. What little I could find was mostly for native speakers (and usually included an expensive import markup.)
What are some challenges you have faced in running this company, as well as an Asian-owned small business?
It has definitely been difficult balancing raising my kids and taking care of my family at the same time as running a business!
What are your thoughts on the changing landscape in the industry?
There is a lot of opportunity nowadays for small businesses. It is exciting, but it can also be a bit daunting and overwhelming.
What are your favorite things about your company?
I love the community that has come out of Tigerboom Creative. There are so many incredible families and caregivers that share their experiences and support.
What are your hopes and dreams at your company?
Sometimes I'll receive a very personal message from a parent sharing their complex and challenging relationship with the Korean language and culture. Then, they go on to share how Tigerboom/Cadamini has helped them to feel comfortable, accepted, and supported in their own journey now as a parent. These are the messages that make me feel like I should keep on going. My hope and dream is that anyone hoping to share Korean with their family can find whatever they need through Tigerboom and Cadamini Books.
Website: https://www.tigerboomcreative.com/
Instagram: @tigerboomcreative