Jaja Chen is a 2nd generation Taiwanese American who grew up in China and Taiwan. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker-Supervisor, private practice therapist, and co-owner of Cha Community (formerly Waco Cha) - a boba tea cafe based in Waco and Temple, TX. Spring 2021, Jaja had the honor of representing Cha Community at the Small Business Administration (SBA) through the U.S House of Representatives to testify on behalf of immigrant-owned businesses and pandemic recovery. Jaja is passionate about representation of Asian Americans in leadership throughout Central Texas and is engaged in racial justice and sustainability work through local nonprofits, participation in the City of Waco Sustainability Advisory Board, and Asian Leaders Network Waco - which she and fellow Asian leaders started in Waco this past year. Outside of her work, Jaja loves playing with her English Bulldogs, swimming, gardening and hunting for thrifted and vintage deals.
Main Quote:
“Leaving well is about - whether you are leaving on your own choice or not - there are gifts that can come, especially if you can see the transition as an opportunity to be transformed. There will be so many unexpected gifts.”
Additional Quotes:
“The reason why I’m able to tell my story of not belonging, but then finding connection, through our business (Waco only has 2% Asian representation), is because I’ve lived in so many places, I’ve gained experience, I know what it’s like to be both minority culture and majority culture. Because I’ve walked through the journey - myself, emotionally - I can help others walk through it as well.”
“Thinking about the future ripple effects of my impact and work is what keeps me going.”
“People don’t realize how much grief is involved in change and transition. There is so much grief involved. You need to grieve well the familiarity and proximity of people and places.”
“The experience of moving at age 13 became my first experience of trauma processing. I recommend folks start therapy - if possible - for transitions that are not within their control. I also think, as a 13 year old, I had so many worries and negative views towards transition. Actually getting through the move helped transform that worry.”
To connect with Jaja or learn more about her work:
Private Practice website
Cha Community boba tea cafe
To learn more about the RAFT model
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Take the Workplace Transition Archetype Quiz
Click here to learn more about Leaving Well.
This podcast is produced by Sarah Hartley.
