Meet Richelle Caubang of Kumon of Gilbert – Lindsay & Warner AND Furry Creative Designs (dba The Filipina Shop)

Today we’d like to introduce you to Richelle Caubang.

Hi Richelle, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My journey into entrepreneurship didn’t begin with a grand plan. It evolved through different seasons of life, growth, and reinvention. Before moving to the United States, my entrepreneurial journey actually began in the Philippines, where I sold handmade jewelry and created balloon décor for events. Those early experiences introduced me to the joy of creating something with my hands and bringing ideas to life for others.

After migrating to the U.S. and eventually becoming a citizen, I spent my early years here as a stay-at-home mom. During that season, I continued exploring creativity by teaching myself how to crochet and selling handmade pieces, which allowed me to stay connected to my entrepreneurial spirit while raising my family.

Before becoming a business owner, I spent two decades working as an executive assistant, a role that shaped my approach to organization, leadership, and problem-solving. Along the way, I worked full-time at a church and later at a Bible software company, experiences that helped me grow professionally while continuing to develop a heart for serving people and supporting the community.

The turning point came when I had the opportunity to acquire Kumon of Gilbert–Lindsay & Warner from a fellow University of the Philippines alumnus — a moment that felt both deeply meaningful and full of responsibility. Stepping into ownership allowed me to grow not only as an entrepreneur but also as an educator, working closely with families and students and seeing firsthand how small, consistent steps can transform a child’s confidence and academic journey.

Alongside education, my creative side continued to evolve. What began as handmade crochet and later jewelry through local pop-up events eventually led me to create The Filipina Shop — a space dedicated to celebrating Filipino culture, craftsmanship, and identity.

Looking back, my story has been one of steady evolution. Each chapter, from immigrant and stay-at-home mom to educator and entrepreneur, reflects my belief that meaningful growth happens through small, intentional steps taken over time.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, and one of the most defining moments happened early in my journey as a business owner. COVID lockdown began on my anniversary. A day that was supposed to feel celebratory suddenly became filled with uncertainty and fear. As a new business owner, I found myself questioning everything: whether the business would survive, how I could continue supporting families & staff, and whether I had made the right decision stepping into entrepreneurship. There were moments when giving up felt like the safest option.

What carried me through that season was the support of the local community. Government relief grants became available, and the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce played an important role in helping me navigate resources I didn’t even know existed at the time. That experience reminded me that entrepreneurship isn’t meant to be done alone, and that community support can make all the difference during challenging times.

Looking back, that chapter changed me. It forced me to become more resilient, more adaptable, and more confident in my ability to lead through uncertainty. What felt overwhelming in the moment ultimately strengthened my mindset and deepened my commitment to both education and entrepreneurship.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Kumon of Gilbert–Lindsay & Warner has been one of the most meaningful chapters of my professional journey and reflects my deep belief in the power of education to change lives. Kumon is an after-school Math and Reading enrichment program designed to help students build strong academic foundations through a step-by-step learning approach. Unlike fast-paced school curricula that sometimes prioritize quick results, Kumon focuses on developing mastery through consistent practice, allowing students to strengthen foundational skills before moving forward. Many students and families know me simply as “Mrs. Richelle,” and building those personal connections has been one of the most rewarding parts of my work.

At our center, we specialize in Math and Reading, guiding students through individualized progression based on their ability rather than grade level. We offer orientations and free assessments to help families understand where their child currently stands and to create a clear path for growth. My goal has always been to create an environment where students feel supported, capable, and encouraged to take small, consistent steps toward confidence and independence.

Alongside my work in education, I discovered another side of entrepreneurship through creativity and cultural expression. What began as a hobby creating handmade jewelry and participating in local pop-up events eventually evolved into The Filipina Shop — a space dedicated to celebrating Filipino culture, craftsmanship, and identity. Although education and cultural entrepreneurship may look different on the surface, both allow me to build bridges, i.e., helping people grow, connect, and feel supported in meaningful ways.

Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
What makes me happiest is witnessing growth, especially when I get to see the results of someone’s hard work come full circle. Through my work at Kumon, some of my most meaningful moments come from hearing that a student went from struggling academically to earning A’s, or receiving messages from parents who are genuinely happy and grateful for the improvement they see in their child’s confidence and performance. I also feel incredibly proud when students share exciting milestones with me, like winning top prizes in competitions, because it reminds me that the small, consistent steps we take together truly make a difference.

As an entrepreneur and creative, I feel deeply fulfilled when people connect with what I create. Whether it’s a buyer admiring a handmade piece or someone resonating with the cultural story behind The Filipina Shop, those interactions feel meaningful because they represent connection and shared experience. I also genuinely enjoy creating and learning new things from scratch — exploring new ideas, developing skills, and challenging myself to grow in ways I never expected.

Outside of work, my family is a constant source of happiness and grounding for me. My faith and relationship with God also bring me a deep sense of peace and perspective, reminding me to trust the journey and find meaning in both the challenges and the victories. For me, happiness comes from seeing progress in students, in community, and in my own life while continuing to learn and evolve along the way.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.kumon.com/gilbert-lindsay-warner/aboutcenter#instructor
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrsrichelle
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/richelle.caubang
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@realmrsrichelle
• Other: https://furrycreative.com/

Image Credits
Not applicable.