Meet Dà jiě and Jasmine her daughter. Dà jiě and her sister Shu Yen, founders of Sun Son International, are the women who transformed Taiwan’s natural therapy industry. From humble beginnings to industry pioneers, their story is pure heart, grit, and wisdom, carried forward for the next generation of women rising.
Links & References:
Connect With Sunson International
Website: http://www.sunson.com.tw/
Connect With Jennifer Jefferies
About Sunson International
Founded over 25 years ago by sisters Dàjiě and Xu Yan, Sunson International has been a trailblazer in bringing aromatherapy, Ayurveda, and holistic wellness education to Taiwan. What began as a small, heart-led venture has evolved into a nationally respected company known for its integrity, compassion, and commitment to raising professional standards in natural therapies.
Through their pioneering vision, Sunson International has empowered thousands of practitioners and entrepreneurs — particularly women — to create their own successful wellness businesses. Today, the company continues to embody its founding values of education, community, and authenticity, leading the way for holistic healing across Asia.
Show Note:
Dà jiě and Shu Yen’s entrepreneurial journey @ 1:34
Jennifer provides background on Dà jiě and her sister Shu Yen, who started the aromatherapy company Sun Sun International 25 years ago in Taiwan. Despite facing challenges as women entrepreneurs at a time when that was uncommon, they built a successful and innovative business that has elevated the aromatherapy industry in Taiwan.
Overcoming adversity and finding purpose @ 4:41
Dà jiě shares that she and Shu Yen were motivated to start their business out of necessity – coming from a poor farming family, they had to find a way to support themselves and their families. Their journey was driven by a need to survive, but also a desire to help others through their work in aromatherapy and beauty.
Dà jiě and Shu Yen’s collaborative approach @ 7:40
Jennifer notes that Dà jiě and Shu Yen’s business model and leadership style was quite different from the typical male-dominated companies at the time. They supported each other as partners and friends, focusing on education, community, and helping other women become independent rather than just aggressive sales tactics.
Pioneering natural therapies in Taiwan @ 12:39
Dà jiě and Shu Yen were the first to bring many natural therapy modalities like Ayurveda and Bowen Therapy to Taiwan, educating the market and elevating the professionalism of the industry. Jennifer notes this innovative, feminine approach is a key reason for their success.
Passing on wisdom and values @ 17:53
Dà jiě shares the key values and lessons she hopes to pass on to her daughters and the next generation of women entrepreneurs – the importance of continuous learning, helping others, and maintaining independence and self-care. She encourages women to be brave, set goals, and not waste time.
Reflections on their partnership @ 31:35
Jennifer expresses deep gratitude for Dà jiě and Shu Yen’s friendship and business partnership over the past 20+ years. She notes their trust, courage, and sisterhood have been a profound inspiration, and she is honoured to have played a role in supporting their journey.