LOANN KAJI

Introduction to Loann Kaji

Loann Kaji, born Kieu-Loan Thi Nguyen on April 28, 1984, in Vietnam, is a prominent figure in the digital content creation sphere, best known as the mother of YouTube sensation Ryan Kaji. As of 2025, she is 41 years old and resides in Cypress, Texas, USA. Loann's journey from a high school chemistry teacher to the co-creator and manager of one of YouTube's most successful children's channels, Ryan's World, showcases her adaptability and entrepreneurial spirit. Her contributions have been pivotal in building a family-friendly brand that resonates with millions worldwide. 

Early Life and Education

Loann emigrated from Vietnam to the United States during her childhood, settling in Houston, Texas. She pursued higher education at the University of Houston and later at Texas Tech University, where she earned a Bachelor's degree in Arts and Science in 2010. During her time at Texas Tech, she met her future husband, Shion Kaji, a civil engineering student from Japan. The couple married in August 2013 and have three children: son Ryan and twin daughters Emma and Kate. 

Transition to Digital Content Creation

Initially, Loann worked as a high school chemistry teacher and was certified to teach English as a second language. In 2015, recognizing the potential of digital media, she and her husband launched the YouTube channel Ryan's World (formerly Ryan ToysReview), featuring their then three-year-old son unboxing and reviewing toys. The channel's engaging content quickly garnered a massive following, prompting Loann to leave her teaching career to focus on managing the family's burgeoning digital enterprise.

Business Ventures and Media Appearances

Beyond YouTube, Loann co-founded Sunlight Entertainment, the family's production company responsible for creating and managing content across multiple platforms. She has also appeared in various media projects, including the Nickelodeon series Ryan's Mystery Playdate and the 2024 feature film Ryan's World the Movie: Titan Universe Adventure, where she served as a producer and cast member. 

Impact and Influence

Under Loann's guidance, Ryan's World has expanded into a global brand, encompassing merchandise, books, and video games. The channel boasts over 38 million subscribers and has accumulated more than 59 billion views as of January 2025. Loann's strategic partnerships, including a licensing deal with Pocket.watch, have been instrumental in the brand's success. 

Personal Life and Resilience

Loann's journey has not been without challenges. In 2002, she faced legal issues related to shoplifting, resulting in probation and a brief jail sentence in 2003. She has since moved forward, focusing on her family's well-being and the growth of their digital ventures. Loann's story is one of resilience and transformation, illustrating how personal setbacks can be overcome through determination and hard work. 

Loann Kaji's evolution from educator to digital media entrepreneur underscores her adaptability and commitment to her family's success. Her role in shaping Ryan's World into a household name highlights the impact of parental involvement in children's digital content creation. Through her efforts, Loann has not only supported her son's rise to fame but also established herself as a significant figure in the realm of family-oriented digital media.