From Refugee to American Dream Maker
In the late 1970s, as Cambodia fell into the brutal grip of the Khmer Rouge, thousands of lives were torn apart. Among those who fled the horror was Ted Ngoy, a man who would go on to inspire generations with his journey from war refugee to California business mogul – earning the nickname “The Donut King.”
A New Life in a New Land
Ted Ngoy arrived in the United States with little more than hope and a fierce determination to rebuild his life. Like many other Southeast Asian refugees, he faced enormous challenges: language barriers, cultural differences, and the burden of trauma. But Ted was driven by the desire to provide a better future for his family.
He soon discovered an opportunity in an unexpected place — the American doughnut shop.
A Sweet Success
Starting as a janitor and gas station attendant, Ted eventually secured a job at a local doughnut shop. It was there that he learned the ins and outs of the business. Recognizing its potential, he took a chance and opened his own store in Southern California.
His recipe for success was simple: hard work, long hours, and community support. He not only built a successful business for himself but also helped dozens of other Cambodian immigrants start their own shops. In time, Cambodian families came to dominate the independent doughnut industry across California.
More Than a Businessman
Ted’s impact went far beyond pastries. He became a mentor, community leader, and a symbol of the American Dream. His story is one of resilience showing how someone with nothing can rise to build something extraordinary.
Despite facing personal and financial setbacks later in life, Ted Ngoy’s legacy lives on through the countless shops he helped open and the lives he touched.
A Legacy That Rises
Today, the story of “The Donut King” is more than a tale about doughnuts. It’s a testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of community, and the belief that second chances are worth fighting for.
Ted Ngoy didn’t just sell doughnuts — he sold hope.