In 1996, Jim Zhao, a Cricket Wireless authorized retailer and owner of Dardong LLC, embarked on a journey to the United States, leaving behind his life in China. Despite the initial challenges of language barriers and cultural differences as an immigrant, his amazement of American technology led him to a passion for mobile phones. Every year, he saved up his money to get the latest model cell phone and little by little, he also taught himself how to repair phones. This led to him opening the doors to his first wireless store in 2000.
Jim’s choice to enter the wireless business was fueled by a desire to cater to the Chinatown community, offering them the best deals and services. Through the years, he navigated various providers until discovering Cricket Wireless in 2016, a choice that resonated with the unique needs of Chinatown residents.
Jim’s cultural heritage is central to his role as a business owner and Cricket Wireless authorized retailer. Fluent in Cantonese and Mandarin, Jim and his team easily engages with San Francisco’s Chinatown community in their native language, laddering up to Cricket’s commitment to customer service, which in turn helps customers choose the right devices and plans that meet their needs.
Beyond providing wireless services to San Francisco’s Chinatown, Jim’s store serves as a hub for the local community. Relating to the unique needs of immigrants, Jim and his team go above and beyond – offering translation assistance, running errands, providing financial assistance, and doing all that he can to support his neighbors.
Together with Cricket, they have participated in some of San Francisco’s most celebrated events, including the San Francisco Chinese New Year Community Fair in February and the Autumn Moon Festival in September, keeping Chinese culture alive and sharing it with the broader Cricket community.
Chinatown represents the will of the community to preserve their heritage. Jim fondly recalls the Chinese New Year parades as a celebration that combines modern and traditional elements aimed toward fostering happiness and unity among locals. The Lunar New Year holds special significance for Jim. It is a time of nostalgia and joy, a moment to gather with family, celebrate amidst parades and street markets, and find solace in the peaceful celebration, regardless of the challenges faced throughout the previous year.
As a Chinese small business owner, Jim takes pride in serving his community alongside his family. For him, running a business is not just about providing wireless services; it’s about creating meaningful connections, bridging gaps, and contributing to the vibrancy of Chinatown’s cultural heritage.