We Are Not Herschel

Back in 2017, while I was presenting on camera for Dragon’s Den, one of the male dragons, a retail industry heavyweight, made a cutting remark. He compared SoYoung’s backpack business to Herschel’s and questioned why, despite launching around the same time, our journeys had unfolded so differently.

I was thrown off by the question. To me, it seemed so nonsensical to compare us. Noticing that I was at a loss for words, one of the female dragons stepped in with words I’ll never forget:
“NEVER apologize for your success and how far you’ve come. Only a very small percentage of women-owned businesses make it past the $1 Million mark—and you have. You should be really proud.”

That empowering moment of a woman advocating for and uplifting another woman is something I cherish, even if it didn’t make it into the final cut that aired. It reinforced a truth I live by: comparison is the thief of joy. I’ve never set out to copy another brand. Instead, my focus is on solving real-world problems with products that fill a genuine need.

Take our All Day Backpack for Women as an example. When designing it, I addressed the everyday frustrations I experienced with other backpacks:

💖Easy Access: A spacious zippered front pocket with a key clip keeps your essentials within reach.
💖Versatile Functionality: A padded laptop sleeve allows the backpack to double as a work bag.
💖Thoughtful Design: Deep, stretchy water bottle pockets—crafted with a half linen, half mesh finish—offer style without sacrificing practicality.
💖Generous Capacity: Sized perfectly for travel or a full day on the go, it easily accommodates running shoes, gym clothes, and even our petite Lunch Poches and Petite Beauty Poches.
💖Convenience & Security: A top carry handle for easy pickup and a secure interior zip pocket help protect your valuables.
💖Style-Forward: Designed to complement a woman’s feminine style, not clash with it—unlike most unisex backpacks.

When I first started SoYoung, I dreamed of becoming a household name with products on every major retailer’s shelf. There’s nothing wrong with that vision, except for where that desire was coming from: to validate a part of me that felt inadequate. 

Today, my vision is different: Create a life and a business I love, create products that I’m proud of and share messages of empowerment and help people feel good about themselves.

Thank you for being part of our community and for celebrating self-love with us!

With gratitude and empowerment,
xo Catherine