The Changemakers: Women in Toys, Licensing & Entertainment

The licensing industry has global influence; consumers flock to buy the products the industry creates, and retail revenue is a substantial driver of a brand’s power to implement change. Some executives harness the power of their position to become what License Global calls “Changemakers,” meaning they are uncovering licensing’s potential as a catalyst for change.  

To celebrate the initiatives and individuals behind change, License Global explores how the licensing industry is impacting sustainability, diversity and inclusion through a monthly insight column called Changemakers.

This month’s installment focuses on Women in Toys, Licensing & Entertainment, a nonprofit and global community that champions and advocates for women’s advancement through leadership, networking and educational opportunities. License Global spoke with Ehi Oviasu-Kahn, chairwoman, Women in Toys, Licensing & Entertainment, to learn more about the organization and what it is doing to help women advance in their careers.

License Global: Tell us about the Women in Toys Organization. When did you start and why?

Ehi Oviasu-Kahn: Founded in 1991, a small group of women came together at the New York Toy Fair in pursuit of connections and opportunities in the toy industry. Today, our network has expanded to include the consumer products, licensing and entertainment industries.

Related:Women In Toys, Licensing & Entertainment Announces 2024 Wonder Women Awards Finalists

What is the organization’s purpose?

WiT is the preeminent professional organization serving women in our industry, dedicated to creating a more inclusive and equitable workforce.

WiT focuses heavily on its advocacy efforts. What are these efforts and how are they helping women in the toy industry?

WiT works for the economic empowerment and advancement of its members and women in the industry as a whole. By collaborating with partners, stakeholders and industry leaders, our advocacy efforts aim to create systemic changes that have a lasting impact.

What does Women in Toys hope to accomplish next, and what are some upcoming events and notable news happening in the organization?

We are eagerly anticipating the Wonder Woman Awards, which will be hosted in Los Angeles for the first time this fall. Stay tuned for other events highlighting women’s accomplishments. We anticipate a very active 2025 with numerous initiatives and celebrations.

What other initiatives are WiT focusing on right now?

One area we are particularly excited about is our mentorship program, which pairs emerging talent with industry veterans to foster growth and development. This initiative is crucial for nurturing the next generation of leaders in the toy, consumer products, licensing and entertainment industries.