Shirley Yang is the owner of Taiwanese street food truck and catering service brand Song La - one of our neighbors at Thicket Food Park (7800 S 1st St, Austin TX 78745). You can hardly find a second place like Song La in Austin - authentic Taiwanese flavors, excellent service, high-quality but inexpensive food.
KESSHŌ: Could you share some insights into your entrepreneurial journey?
Shirley: When I first moved to Austin from Houston, there was no authentic Taiwanese food available. Being far away from home, I missed the flavors of my mother's cooking. As a result, I decided to create my own Taiwanese dishes. For those who miss their hometown, Song La is the place to go.
KESSHŌ: What is your primary motivation?
Shirley: My goal is to create authentic Taiwanese food for people who are familiar with or unfamiliar with Taiwan.
KESSHŌ: In what ways has your identity as a mother influenced your entrepreneurial path?
Shirley: After becoming a mother, I realized that I needed to work harder, not only for myself but also for my son.
KESSHŌ: As a female entrepreneur, what do you consider the biggest challenge and the greatest blessing?
Shirley: The biggest challenge is finding spare time to spend with my son. People don't realize that even when we are closed for two days, there are still many preparations that need to be done. I need to find time to spend with my son, especially since he is only four years old. I am fortunate to have a supportive husband who helps me a lot and is always by my side.
KESSHŌ: Could you share some insights into your entrepreneurial journey?
Shirley: When I first moved to Austin from Houston, there was no authentic Taiwanese food available. Being far away from home, I missed the flavors of my mother's cooking. As a result, I decided to create my own Taiwanese dishes. For those who miss their hometown, Song La is the place to go.
KESSHŌ: What is your primary motivation?
Shirley: My goal is to create authentic Taiwanese food for people who are familiar with or unfamiliar with Taiwan.
KESSHŌ: In what ways has your identity as a mother influenced your entrepreneurial path?
Shirley: After becoming a mother, I realized that I needed to work harder, not only for myself but also for my son.
KESSHŌ: As a female entrepreneur, what do you consider the biggest challenge and the greatest blessing?
Shirley: The biggest challenge is finding spare time to spend with my son. People don't realize that even when we are closed for two days, there are still many preparations that need to be done. I need to find time to spend with my son, especially since he is only four years old. I am fortunate to have a supportive husband who helps me a lot and is always by my side.
KESSHŌ: How did you discover KESSHŌ, and what are your favorite sweet treats there?
Shirley: KESSHŌ is our neighbor in the thicket food truck. My favorite is black sesame and mango gelato.
This Mother's Day, join us as we honor the spirit of motherhood and entrepreneurship through the inspiring stories of our local community members.