Heart Open ConversAsians Podcast: Motherhood During Covid & Meaningful Legacies
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Time to read 3 min
When the world shut down, motherhood during Covid changed everything for so many of us. For me, Samantha - founder of Joeydolls - it sparked a journey of creating meaningful legacies for my daughters and so many more children!
I’m so honoured to share this story, especially after opening up on the Heart Open ConversAsians podcast. If you’ve ever wondered how one wild idea, born in a tiny living room during lockdown, turned into a brand that celebrates our beautiful Asian cultures - this is for you!
Let’s dive into how Joeydolls came to life, why our diverse dolls for children matter, and how you can be part of this meaningful legacy with us.
Table of contents
Our Joeydolls: Diverse, Safe & Meaningful
Before I share more about my journey through motherhood during Covid , let’s talk about what makes Joeydolls so special!
- Soft and safe: Made with love and the gentlest fabrics.
- Culturally authentic: Each doll proudly wears traditional outfits that honour Asian heritage.
- Inclusive representation: Children see themselves reflected - boosting self-esteem!
How Motherhood During Covid Sparked a Legacy
Like so many parents, Covid flipped my world upside down. My wedding photography business stalled overnight. I was at home, isolated, with my little ones - feeling fear and hope all at once.
Watching my daughters play made me reflect on my own childhood. I grew up with blonde dolls. I never saw myself in the princess stories. Did my daughters deserve the same feeling of invisibility? Absolutely not!
This is where the idea of Joeydolls took root. Motherhood during Covid forced me to slow down, look my fears in the eye, and plant seeds for something bigger. I wanted to build a meaningful legacy of pride and representation - not just for my girls, but for every child who deserves to feel seen!
Why Representation Matters for Little Ones
Kids notice. They see hair colour, eye shape, skin tone - and they look for themselves in their toys. Our diverse dolls for children do more than look cute on a shelf. They spark cultural conversations, build self-worth, and celebrate heritage!
Here’s why it matters:
- Boosts confidence and self-love
- Fights stereotypes and racism early
- Connects kids to their roots
- Starts meaningful family chats
- Creates emotional security
Isn’t that the most beautiful gift we can give?
Highlights from My Heart Open ConversAsians Podcast
When I spoke with Lilian, we explored how motherhood during Covid revealed my deepest ‘why.’ I didn’t want fear to be my daughters’ legacy. I wanted connection. Inclusion. Joy!
We talked about:
- My pivot from photographer to doll maker
- The surge of anti-Asian hate and how that shaped my mission
- The power of community support - YOU!
- How every Joeydoll is a tiny reminder: you belong here
Your Role in This Meaningful Legacy
Want to build a better world for our kids? Start at home. Our dolls are more than toys - they’re daily reminders that diversity is beautiful !
Simple ways to foster representation:
- Read diverse books together
- Talk about cultural celebrations
- Choose toys that reflect your family
- Encourage pride in heritage
- Join communities that share your values
Together, we can make sure no child grows up feeling unseen.
FAQs
Are Joeydolls safe for babies and toddlers?
Absolutely! They’re made with soft fabrics and no small parts.
What cultures are represented?
We celebrate a wide range of Asian cultures - from Chinese to Vietnamese, Korean, Filipino, South Asian, and more!
How do these dolls help with cultural education?
They open up conversations! Each doll’s outfit and story reflect traditions, so kids learn while they play.
Summary
Motherhood during Covid sparked the idea for Joeydolls.
Samantha wanted to create a meaningful legacy for her kids and others.
Representation matters - our diverse dolls for children boost confidence!
The podcast episode shares our heartfelt mission.
Parents can join us in building an inclusive world, one doll at a time!
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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 lives—one cuddle at a time.
