Kalika Yap - Going Beyond Movement

Kalika Yap is a Santa Monica based entrepreneur whose businesses include award-winning interactive design agency Citrus Studios, Luxe Link, the Tangerine Co, and the Lemonade Stand. She has used her own expertise to improve the lives of others and help their businesses to thrive in a difficult market. Giving back to the community is an important part of her life as an entrepreneur and mother, as she devotes a large portion of her time to volunteering at her children’s school. This Beyond Mom shares with us her favorite Santa Monica spots and how she balances numerous companies and motherhood with a sunny outlook.

1. What makes you a Beyond Mom?

I give my all- I’m “all in” at any time or activity. This goes for both family and business. My “why” is to contribute and be of service to others.

2. What are the parts of you that have grown and expanded since becoming a Mom?

I have become much more creative, especially with kids’ arts and crafts projects. Also, I’ve become a much more patient person. My friendships with other families, especially moms, have expanded and now play a more prominent role in my life.

3. Can you share a collaboration/success story with another woman; what helped the collaboration become successful?

I have a few collaboration stories with other women that stand out! I mentor many young women, including Kelley Weaver, owner of Purse Case, which was featured on Shark Tank.

I was on the board of directors of NAWBO LA for many years and helped grow the organization as Education Chair, where I helped to plan workshops, panels, and keynotes. Through one my companies, Citrus, I provide web site design and consulting to many women entrepreneurs and help them grow their businesses.

I volunteer many hours at my kid’s school, where I collaborate with many moms on several of the committees, including Dia de Los Muertos and Masquerade festivals. I also the Co-Chair of the Spring Fundraiser for two years straight. Last year, we broke the fundraising records. I hire primarily women employees for all my businesses, so I work with women majority of my day.

4. What relationships help you stay connected to yourself?

My family, in particularly my husband and brothers and sisters. Also, my dear old friends keep me grounded.

5. Do you have a ‘Beyond’ dream that you are pursuing? If so, please share…

I would love to start a school/maker space in the future. Also, I would love to pursue more education for myself in a formal setting. Additionally, I’d love to take part in more creative pursuits, such as writing a book, experimenting with photography, and reading poetry.

6. What wellness activity can you not live without? What is one thing you do daily that balances you?

I participate in several wellness-related activities daily to balance myself. These include meditation, mindfulness, being grateful, walking, stretching, and eat a mostly vegetarian diet.