By Wynn Wilder
As we celebrate AAPI Heritage Month, we turn our spotlight on the trailblazing creative force behind Cloud Studio, the fiercely inspiring YouMe. As an AAPI founding member of Cloud Studio, she uses her platform to champion change in the creative marketing space, especially for sustainable brands and minority representation.
Rooted in her passion for inclusivity, YouMe embarked on her entrepreneurial journey with the inception of Cloud Studio, a creative agency that has grown into a catalyst for diversity and equality in marketing. Her vision was driven by her keen observation of the industry’s shortcomings and an unwavering determination to address them. Over time, Cloud Studio morphed into an inspiring platform for change, propelled by YouMe's commitment to having a positive impact on the world.
As an Asian individual, YouMe faced cultural pressures and expectations, particularly from her parents who preferred stability over the uncertainties of entrepreneurship. However, her tenacity, open communication, and negotiation skills guided her towards finding a balance between honoring her cultural heritage and pursuing her ambitions.
YouMe’s focus on sustainability and eco-consciousness is evident in her diverse portfolio of brands. She carefully selects brands that align with Cloud Studio's commitment to sustainable practices and positive impact. Through rigorous research and an eye for synergy, YouMe ensures that these brands share the same vision as her agency.
Her favorites include Petite Studio for slow fashion and KORRES for skincare, which stand out for their unwavering commitment to sustainability and innovative reuse of recycled materials. Through conscious partnerships and collaborations, YouMe has managed to spread awareness about sustainable practices and significantly influence consumer behavior and industry practices.
In response to the increasing demand for inclusivity and diversity in the fashion and beauty sectors, YouMe celebrates the rise of conscious consumerism and the trend of brands catering to diverse body types, skin tones, and cultural backgrounds.
As an influential figure in social media and influencer marketing, YouMe strives to address the lack of minority representation in the industry. Diversity and inclusivity are not merely buzzwords at Cloud Studio; they form the essence of every campaign, partnership, and initiative. This commitment extends to the Cloud Cafe, a free mentorship program for minority women seeking digital marketing advice to grow their businesses, reflecting YouMe’s deep-rooted mission of giving back to her community.
Throughout her career, working with influential figures and brands has sharpened YouMe’s creative eye and fostered a spirit of innovation. She believes in continuous learning and unlearning to keep her strategies fresh and impactful. Her approach to the creative industry extends to promoting ethical practices and eco-consciousness, which she believes will play a significant role in the future of fashion and beauty.
Faced with challenges as an Asian female executive in the industry, YouMe’s strength lies in advocating for minorities and challenging biases. Her personal style reflects her philosophy of “less is more”, with a focus on quality wardrobe staples and simple skincare essentials.
Looking ahead, YouMe envisions exciting possibilities for Cloud Studio, including her personal project Cloud Bar, potential collaborations with art or tech companies. She also prioritizes self-care and maintains a healthy work-life balance through practices like acupuncture, cupping, and superfood infusions.
With her sights set on the future, YouMe aspires to amplify her mission through new initiatives and partnerships, ensuring that Cloud Studio continues to be a beacon of change and innovation in the industry. And on a lighter note, should she ever have the chance for a dream photoshoot with an icon, it would undoubtedly be with the formidable Michelle Yeoh, whom she admires for her talent, grace, and powerful representation of the AAPI community.
YouMe's journey is a testament to the power of vision, resilience, and passion. She continues to inspire and create meaningful change, serving as a role model for young entrepreneurs and influencers aspiring to leave their own mark on the industry. Through her work, YouMe embodies the spirit of AAPI Heritage Month – celebrating diversity, advocating for representation, and contributing to the rich tapestry of Asian American and Pacific Islander achievements.
As she navigates the future of the creative marketing space, YouMe remains committed to pushing boundaries, nurturing talent, and encouraging sustainable practices. It is clear that Cloud Studio under her leadership will continue to challenge the status quo, empowering brands and individuals alike to create a more inclusive, diverse, and sustainable future in marketing.
In this AAPI Heritage Month, we salute YouMe for her remarkable contributions to the industry and the AAPI community. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact one person's vision, driven by passion and purpose, can have in creating positive and lasting change.
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