Jennifer Ungacta Chau , a dedicated CHamoru mother of four , has always embraced the value of family and lifelong learning . Despite her background working for a multinational corporation , her entrepreneurial spirit drove her to pursue her dream of being her own boss while prioritizing her family . Her journey with Kindermusik , an early childhood enrichment program , began 18 years ago in Taiwan . Witnessing its transformative impact on her shy , developmentally delayed child , Jennifer recognized the potential . Seizing the opportunity , she pursued formal training , coupled with her pre-existing passionate commitment to childhood development through music , and became her own boss . Kindermusik , designed for children from infancy to age 7 ( with Jennifer ’ s specialty focusing on the 0-4 age group ), offers 45 minutes of joyful music activities . Parents and caregivers participate in classes featuring fingerplays , singalongs , instrument exploration , circle dances , creative movement , and musical storytelling . Beyond the classroom , parents can extend learning at home , observing the positive impact on their child ’ s physical , language , cognitive , and social-emotional development .
Upon returning to Guam , Jennifer recognized a significant gap in enrichment activities for children under the age of five . Her deep belief in the benefits of music for literacy and child development convinced her that she needed to start her business .
Along with her 18 years of Kindermusik experience from Taiwan , and knowledge as a parent who had applied music and stories in her children ’ s upbringing , she understood the impact of building a community to support mothers and families . This motivated her to make her services accessible to the families of Guam , and she started Minagof Music .
Starting her own business was a personal and professional challenge for Jennifer . She initially funded
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the venture from her own savings , operating on a shoestring budget . She focused on networking and building connections with parents who were unfamiliar with her type of services , but soon became her client base . The process was slow , as she was essentially starting from scratch , but her determination fueled her efforts .
One of the biggest challenges Jennifer encountered was introducing her services to people who had never experienced or seen them before . Convincing parents of the benefits of Kindermusik , from bonding to setting the stage for success in school , required effective communication and marketing strategies . Jennifer is determined to overcome this challenge and build awareness about her business .
Jennifer ’ s journey had its triumphs as well . One memorable moment was the smooth process of obtaining her business license , despite the potential setbacks . She also cherished what her son calls a “ rockstar ” moment when , with limited social media exposure , she managed to secure a space for marketing at a popular holiday fair on short notice . Her showcase of services made a lasting impression on the fair organizers , who accommodated her within 24 hours of the event and felt that it is absolutely needed for the community .
Jennifer ’ s short-term goals include educating parents about the benefits of Kindermusik and expanding her reach to more centers willing to host the program , such as community centers and childcare facilities . She aims to promote Kindermusik as a valuable tool for early childhood development .
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In the long term , Jennifer envisions her program becoming a part of afterschool programs and community centers , further enriching the lives of children on Guam . She also aspires to cultivate a team of early childhood music and movement specialists to ensure the continuity and growth of her mission .
For those aspiring to start their own businesses , Jennifer offers valuable advice :
• Don ’ t quit your day job prematurely , especially during the early stages of your business . Maintaining a stable income is crucial unless you have access to significant funding .
• Be prepared to pivot and adapt to changing circumstances . The business landscape can shift rapidly , so flexibility and readiness are key .
• Network actively . Collaborate , cross-promote , and seek opportunities to provide your services .
• Build a strong community and nurture customer relationships . Jennifer ensures that each child and parent feel welcome and valued in her business , as personal connections can be powerful tools for growth and happiness . “ Minagof ” is CHamoru for happiness .
Minagof Music and Jennifer Ungacta Chau ’ s journey exemplify the impact of dedication and a passion for enriching the lives of children and families . With her vision and unwavering commitment , Jennifer dreams to bring the joy of music and learning to the children of Guam , and we are excited to witness it .
Owner : Jennifer Ungacta Chau Contact Information : minagof . hu @ gmail . com Email for more information class details
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13 PACIFIC BUSINESS PARTNERS DECEMBER 2023 |