Chia Ying Tsai, Guatemala Global Young Entrepreneur Stars Recipient: Promoting Taiwanese Bubble Tea Culture with a Heart for Helping and Sharing

Chia Ying Tsai, recognized as a recipient of the 2023 Global Young Entrepreneur Stars Award by the Overseas Community Affairs Council (OCAC), has played a pivotal role in bring Taiwanese bubble tea culture to Guatemala. Driven by her husband's fondness for Taiwanese bubble tea, Tsai overcame cultural barriers and successfully introduced the unique flavors of Taiwan to Guatemala, garnering praise from international friends. She was honored with the prestigious award from the OCAC. Expressing her gratitude upon receiving this recognition, Tsai expresses her deepest gratitude to her husband: “While balancing my career and engagement in the business association, he provided encouragement and companionship, assisted in taking care of our children, and supported my continuous involvement in overseas community activities.”

Full-time Mom Transforms into Entrepreneur, All Thanks to Husband's Encouragement

Chia Ying Tsai, born in Taiwan, moved to Guatemala with her parents at the age of 11. However, she chose to return to Taiwan for her university studies. "I enrolled in the Department of Spanish Language and Culture at Fu Jen Catholic University because I had no exposure to Mandarin in Guatemala, and I even forgot how to use Zhuyin. (phonetic symbols)." To regain her Mandarin skills, Chia Ying Tsai minored in journalism, making the most of her free time to study Mandarin. After graduating, she successfully secured a position in a technology company in Taiwan.

"Having lived in Central and South America, my manager sent me overseas to find clients," shared Chia Ying Tsai. By coincidence, she crossed paths with her husband in Guatemala, leading her to make the decision to shift her focus and life to develop in the country.

With a 14-hour time difference between Taiwan and Guatemala and the challenges of handling work promptly, coupled with the recent birth of her eldest daughter, Tsai decided to resign from her previous job and become a stay-at-home mom. Spending years revolving around her child sparked the idea of returning to the workforce. She explained, "My husband suggested me not to work outside for others because it would constrain me to the company and restrict my time." Therefore, with her husband's support and encouragement, she decided to start her own business, beginning with his favorite bubble tea, with the goal of bringing the delightful taste of Taiwan to Guatemala.

Pioneering Latin American-Styled Bubble Tea: Successfully Promoting Taiwanese Culinary Culture

In 2012, Chia Ying Tsai launched her first beverage shop, Bobalicious, embarking on her entrepreneurial journey. In the initial stages, Tsai took on every aspect of the business, handling tasks from ingredient sourcing, quality control, and food certification applications to importing raw materials, preparing tea, and even acting as the delivery driver—a true "one-person company." 

At the start, the shop sold fewer than ten cups a day. “Latin Americans prefer sweeter flavors, and Taiwanese bubble tea was not sweet enough for them,” she said. Tsai collaborated with food experts to enhance the sweetness and richness of the beverages. Introducing vibrant and colorful bursting tapioca balls, she successfully captivated the taste buds of Latin Americans, making her beverages a hit among the locals.

When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted global shipping in 2020, Tsai faced import challenges due to stricter customs inspections. Instead of being deterred, Tsai seized the opportunity to invest in local raw material production. Together with her husband, they distributed trial products to businesses, gradually expanding their bubble tea enterprise. Known for her generosity in sharing knowledge, Tsai provided guidance to local youths starting their own shops, offering consultations and sharing her experiences. Today, she owns three directly operated stores, seven franchise stores, and supplies raw materials to over 200 coffee shops. Her influence extends from Guatemala to Honduras and El Salvador, successfully spreading the joy of Taiwanese bubble tea culture in Central and South America.

Making Connections in the Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce in Guatemala: Embracing the Value of Helping Others

In 2015, Chia Ying Tsai received an invitation to join the Asociación cámara de comercio de Taiwan en Guatemala. Fluent in both Mandarin and Spanish, she took on the role of secretary, helping with administrative tasks. In 2018, she became Secretary-General for the Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce in Latin America (TCCLA). During her tenure, she actively handled issues such as assisting Taiwanese nationals in travel emergencies.
Remarkably, the TCCLA, led by President Erick Liu, made a special contribution by donating one ambulance and 150 wheelchairs to the Guatemalan government, showcasing the ethos of Taiwanese businesses in Central and South America: "Take from society, give back to society." Chia Ying Tsai mentioned that during that time, First Lady Marroquín graciously invited Taiwanese entrepreneurs for a day tour of the Presidential Palace as a gesture of gratitude for their charitable acts.

In her eight years of service with the Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce, Chia Ying Tsai found that the most rewarding part of it is the chance to learn from experienced Taiwanese entrepreneurs. With a collaborative mindset, members willingly share their business experiences and offer guidance to the younger generation. "Even though times have changed and approaches differ, the core principles remain constant. By integrating their experiences into the modern context, we can still create innovative and creative ventures," reflects Tsai. She expresses deep gratitude to the senior members who are eager to teach and share their knowledge. Particularly impactful was the advice from one senior member: "Don't be afraid to help others." This guiding principle has left a lasting impression on Tsai, nurturing in her a continued commitment to helping and sharing with others.

Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce: Bridging Overseas Communities and Taiwan, Supporting Businesses in Guatemala

In February 2023, Chia Ying Tsai assumed the role of President of the Asociación cámara de comercio de Taiwan en Guatemala. She sees the association as a platform that connects overseas communities with Taiwan. In addition to supporting Taiwanese businesses and assisting fellow compatriots, the association actively shares relevant information from the OCAC and promotes Taiwan's soft power in the local community.

Since taking on the role of president, Tsai has continued to organize events such as Dragon Boat Festival and Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations, fostering a sense of community among association members. Recognizing that second and third-generation overseas Taiwanese might not strongly identify with Taiwan, Tsai emphasizes the importance of engaging them in community activities to deepen their connection with Taiwan.

While many people might perceive Guatemala as having security issues, the country holds significant market potential. With its pleasant climate and a thriving tourism industry, Guatemala offers numerous business opportunities. Currently, the Asociación cámara de comercio de Taiwan en Guatemala has 58 members. Most of the older members have returned to Taiwan for retirement, leaving behind middle-aged second-generation Taiwanese individuals. Some continue their local ventures, while others, facing challenges in adapting to Guatemalan society, choose to relocate to Canada or the United States—a trend that Chia Ying Tsai finds regrettable. Considering this, she is dedicated to assisting local businesses. For instance, during the Dragon Boat Festival, Tsai and her team orchestrated a Taiwanese food festival. They invited young Guatemalan entrepreneurs to set up booths showcasing a variety of delicious Taiwanese dishes. This initiative not only allowed locals to enjoy the flavors of Taiwanese cuisine but also contributed to the promotion of Taiwanese culinary culture, fostering a mutually beneficial outcome.

Seeking Advice and Collaboration: The Path to Expanding Business Opportunities

Chia Ying Tsai shares valuable insights for young entrepreneurs looking to start their own businesses. She emphasize the importance of thorough research before embarking on a business venture. This involves gathering information from various sources, consulting experts, utilizing online resources, and leveraging platforms such as the Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce and the overseas office. The key, according to Tsai, is to clearly define your goals and desired direction before taking the plunge. Tsai also likens the market to a vast pie filled with limitless opportunities. Rather than fostering suspicion and constraints, she encourages collaboration and communication among entrepreneurs. By working together, they can amplify business opportunities. "Don't be afraid; persistence is crucial," Tsai advises young entrepreneurs. 

For those interested in the Global Young Entrepreneur Stars program, she urges them to participate boldly, regardless of the scale of their ventures. "The worst outcome is just a thank you for trying, and the experiences gained are the most valuable," emphasizes Tsai.

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