Welcome to Yumi’s Universe

A magical world where imagination grows, cultures connect, and every child is celebrated for who they are. 🌏✨

⭐ Our Story

Yumi’s Universe was born from the imagination of Tess Cacciatore, an award-winning writer, director and global peace advocate. After decades of empowering youth across continents, Tess envisioned a world where children could learn values of harmony, respect, purity and tranquility (the four corners of the formal Japanese Tea Ceremony - Wa Kei Se Waku) in a fun, magical way. 

Alongside a team of world-class creators, musicians, animators and global advisors, Yumi’s Universe blossomed into a powerful movement — one that connects families through art, culture and compassion. Joel Christopher Payne joined the YUMI team from the start, as the leading illustrator and animator.  

Today, children everywhere join Yumi and her friends as they travel the world, explore ancient wisdom and learn lessons that nurture the heart. 

Any question?

⭐ What We Create

  • 📘 Stories & Books

    Beautifully illustrated adventures that teach children about kindness, diversity, and global harmony. Our books have become Amazon best-sellers and beloved bedtime favorites.

    Shop 

  • 🎶 Music

    Original songs like “Chasing the Sun” and “Mother Nature” inspire joy, healing, and unity. Our music has won international awards and touched families around the globe.

    Music 

  • 🎨 Personalized Art

    Through Yumi’s Treasures, families can create custom illustrated portraits featuring their child with their favorite Yumi character — a keepsake filled with love, magic, and meaning.

    Personalise Now 

  • 🎬 Videos & Animation

    Our animated adventures invite children into a world of peace, imagination, and cultural discovery.

    Videos and Animations 

⭐ Join Our Journey

Yumi’s Universe is more than a brand — it’s a global family.
A place where stories heal, cultures unite, and children learn to shine their brightest light. 🌟

Join Us

Meet the Team

  • Tess Cacciatore – Creator, Writer, Executive Producer

    Tess Cacciatore is an award-winning writer, director, producer and global peace advocate with over three decades of experience in entertainment, technology and social impact. As the visionary behind YUMI’s Universe, Tess blends storytelling, education and cultural wisdom to inspire children and families around the world. She is the founder of the Global Women’s Empowerment Network (GWEN) and has worked across five continents to empower youth, amplify unheard voices and build bridges of peace through multimedia. Her mission is to unite generations and cultures through stories that foster compassion, imagination and action.

  • Joel Christopher Payne – Creative Director & Lead Animator

    Joel Payne is an award-winning animator and creative director with over 30 years of experience in feature film, television, and video game industries. As the animation lead and character designer for YUMI’s Universe, Joel has brought to life a cast of globally inspired characters that enchant and educate children. His past work includes projects for Disney, Warner Bros. and Universal, and he brings a spirit of wonder and mastery to every frame.