Building a Community in a Changing Industry
by ANGELINA CASTRO, Interim Executive Director, Women in Toys, Licensing & Entertainment
This year has been one full of change in our industry. With the absence of Toy Fair, the introduction of generative AI, and inflation still a looming consideration, the longing for something familiar and grounding is stronger than ever. Coming together as a community becomes even more important to help us connect, navigate the ever-evolving consumer products landscape, and work to future-proof our industry for 2025 and beyond.
That’s where Women in Toys, Licensing & Entertainment (WiT) comes in. For WiT, building a strong, supportive community is at the heart of our mission. Together with our network of women, men, allies, and partners, we are dedicated to creating a space where women can thrive equitably in the workplace and reach their highest professional aspirations. As we look ahead to next year, the importance of a powerful network and unwavering support for its members cannot be overstated.
One of the key ways we build community at WiT is through professional development and mentorship. These programs connect experienced industry leaders with women looking to focus on professional skill-building. They receive guidance and valuable insights, all to help them grow in their careers. In the coming year, we are expanding our professional development programs, focusing on leadership opportunities. We are also building our global network through more integration with our international chapters to reach even more women worldwide.
What we also know to be true is that during times of change and instability, meaningful networking is a critical lifeline to fostering connections. Simply put, it’s not just who you know; it’s the authenticity of the connection. WiT provides a place for those relationships to grow by hosting a variety of events, from conference breakfasts to virtual webinars to local chapter meet-ups. These events bring our members together to celebrate achievements, share experiences, and build lasting bonds.
This fall, for the first time ever, WiT will host the Wonder Women Awards Gala in Los Angeles during LA Fall Toy Previews. Previously held in New York City, this much-anticipated event will bring together top executives to honor the brilliant women whose innovation and leadership ignite and uplift toys, licensing, entertainment, and consumer products. While our business landscape continues to evolve, WiT prioritizes ways
to come together with our industry friends and partners.
In addition to mentorship and networking, WiT is committed to championing diversity and inclusion within the industry. We advocate for policies and practices that ensure all voices are heard and valued. This includes supporting initiatives that close the gender gap, such as flexible working arrangements, pay equity, and IP protection. With an eye on the future, we ultimately drive women’s economic growth and innovation by fostering an inclusive environment.
WiT also recognizes the importance of collaboration with industry partners. We show up with strong convictions and high expectations of our partners to create equitable environments, provide resources, and remove roadblocks so women can reach their highest career goals. By aligning our goals and working together, we can strengthen community and drive positive change and gender parity in 2025 and beyond.
In a rapidly changing industry, community is our greatest asset. Together, we can navigate uncertainty, boost profitability, and build
a more equitable future. At WiT, we are steadfast in that commitment and look forward to 2025 and a new year of positive transformation.
A version of this feature was originally published in The Toy Book’s 2024 LA Fall Toy Preview Issue. Click here to read the full issue! Want to receive The Toy Book in print? Click here for subscription options!
