Growing up in a small town with limited diversity, I always felt a subtle sense of disconnect when browsing through toy aisles. The dolls available rarely reflected my Asian heritage or looked anything like me, which sometimes made me quietly question my place and identity. It wasn't a loud discomfort, but rather a gentle, persistent longing for something familiar, comforting, and genuinely representative of my background.

As I grew older, that feeling stayed with me, evolving into a personal mission: to create something meaningful that could bridge the gap I felt as a child. After countless sketches, thoughtful design sessions, and heartfelt conversations with friends and family, I decided to start a brand called Poco Pals. My first creation, a plush doll named Nini (妮妮), came to life. In Chinese, "Nini" is an endearing way to call someone "little girl," carrying a sense of warmth, affection, and familiarity. Nini is designed with delicate features, a warm, welcoming smile, and traditional-inspired yet approachable clothing details, meant to spark joy and a sense of connection.

Poco Pals holds different meanings for everyone. For children, it's a friend that helps nurture a strong sense of identity, pride, and self-love. For parents, it's a gentle tool to encourage cultural conversations and instill appreciation for their roots. And for adults like myself, it's a comforting piece of healing, fulfilling a gap from childhood and honoring our inner child who longed for representation and understanding.

My goal doesn't stop here; I aim to expand Poco Pals to represent even more diverse Asian cultures, each thoughtfully designed with gentle smiles and meaningful details that tell stories of heritage, belonging, and warmth. Creating Nini has been an incredibly personal and rewarding journey, reminding me of the child I once was, who simply wished to feel seen and acknowledged in everyday play.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for supporting Poco Pals and joining this meaningful journey. With your help, we're creating a world where every child can feel truly seen, understood, and celebrated for exactly who they are.