Global News Feature for Asian Heritage Month 2025
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Time to read 3 min
We Were Featured on Global News for Asian Heritage Month!
Hi friends!
Iโm so excited to share that Joeydolls was featured on Global News as part of their Asian Heritage Month spotlight! It was such a meaningful opportunity to speak about our mission and the real challenges weโre currently facing as a small, Canadian Asian-owned toy business.
Table of contents
We Were Featured on Global News for Asian Heritage Month! Why I Created Joeydolls ๐งธ Our Products That Celebrate Culture ๐ Whatโs Going On With U.S. Orders? ๐ก Weโre Pivoting with Made-in-Canada Products! ๐ฌ Join Our VIP List for Early Access! ๐๏ธ Product Highlights โจ Let's Keep Celebrating Identity Together! โ FAQ ๐ Summary Join our VIP list for more! About The Author
Why I Created Joeydolls
As a Malaysian-born girl growing up in Australia, I never saw dolls that looked like me. Fast forward to motherhood in Canada, I realized - not much had changed.
So I decided to do something about it.
I created Joeydolls so that my daughter - and every child - could see themselves reflected in the toys they play with. Each doll is designed with love, care, and cultural authenticity, from traditional outfits to the softest plush bodies.
These arenโt just toys.
Theyโre tools for belonging, pride, and storytelling.ย
๐งธ Our Products That Celebrate Culture
Weโre proud to offer:
Asian dolls for kids, each representing unique Asian culture
Asian Heritage Month toys that spark meaningful conversations
Soft, plush, and huggable dolls that celebrate identity
New! Made-in-Canada goodies like affirmation cards and sticker dress-ups!
These joyful items are perfect for families, educators, and anyone looking to gift with intention. โจ
๐ Whatโs Going On With U.S. Orders?
Right now, things are tough.
90% of our sales come from the U.S. We used to ship easily thanks to de minimis, which allowed packages under $800 to enter duty-free.
But as of May 2, thatโs changed.
Due to new Trump tariffs on toys , our U.S. customers are now hit with a 54% import tax - yep, over $40 more for a $75 doll. ๐
Itโs heartbreaking. Orders have dropped almost overnight, and as a mama and founder packing every order myself, it's tough to see.
But Iโm not giving up.
๐ก Weโre Pivoting with Made-in-Canada Products!
In true small biz spirit, weโre adapting! Here's what weโre working on right now, all proudly made in Toronto:
๐ Affirmation cards to build kidsโ confidence
๐จ Cultural dress-up sticker sets
๐ Thoughtful, accessible gifts perfect for classrooms or birthdays
They pair beautifully with our dolls or stand on their own. And best of all - they ship affordably within Canada!
๐ฌ Join Our VIP List for Early Access!
Want to be the first to shop these made-in-Canada creations?
Join our VIP list for:
- Early access to launches
- Special discounts
- Behind-the-scenes peeks.
Itโs the best way to stay connected to our journey - especially as we navigate these big changes.
๐๏ธ Product Highlights
Hereโs what makes Joeydolls special:
Each doll reflects Asian heritage
Soft and safe for all ages
Designed to spark cultural curiosity
A meaningful gift during Asian Heritage Month
Created by a Canadian Asian-owned toy businessย
โจ Let's Keep Celebrating Identity Together!
If you believe in diverse representation, cultural connection, and joyful learning - come join us on this journey.
Thereโs never been a better time to support diverse dolls in Canada made by a Canadian Asian-owned toy business.
๐ With love,
Samantha
Founder, Joeydolls
โ FAQ
Are your dolls available in the U.S. right now?
Yes, but new import tariffs have increased costs significantly. Weโre working on better options!
What age are your dolls best for?
Our dolls are perfect for little ones ages 2+ and loved by older kids too!
Do you offer diverse dolls beyond East Asian cultures?
Yes! Each Joeydoll is inspired by a different Asian culture, and weโre always working on expanding our lineup. Join the VIP list to vote on whatโs next!
๐ Summary
Weโre so honored to be featured on Global News for Asian Heritage Month !
This moment reminds us why Joeydolls exists - to createย Asian dolls for kids that inspire cultural pride, empathy, and joy.
Even with the challenges of new tariffs, we're pushing forward with made-in-Canada products that celebrate identity and keep the mission alive.
About The Author
Samantha Ong
Samantha Ong is the founder of Joeydolls, a Canadian-based toy brand on a mission to celebrate Asian cultures through joyful, inclusive play. Inspired by her own experiences growing up without cultural representation, Samantha designs dolls that help children feel proud of who they are while sparking curiosity and empathy in others. Since launching in 2023, Joeydolls has empowered thousands of families to bring culture, identity, and love into their everyday livesโone cuddle at a time.
