Angelina Castro, Interim Executive Director, Women’s Toys, Licensing and Entertainment Industries
This year is a year full of changes for our industry. With Toy Fair absent, the introduction of generative artificial intelligence, and inflation still a looming consideration, the desire for something familiar and basic is stronger than ever. As a community, it’s even more important to come together to help us connect with each other, navigate the changing consumer product landscape, and work to future-proof our industry in 2025 and beyond.
That’s where Women in Toys, Empowerment and Entertainment (WiT) comes into play. Together with our network of women, men, allies and partners, we are committed to creating a space where women can grow equitably in the workplace and achieve their highest career aspirations. As we look ahead to next year, the importance of a strong 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 mentoring. These programs connect experienced industry leaders with women who want to focus on professional skills development. They gain guidance and valuable insights, all of which help them grow in their careers. In the coming year, we will expand our professional development programs and focus on leadership opportunities. We are also building our global network through further integration with international chapters to reach more women around the world.
We also know that during times of change and instability, meaningful networks are a critical lifeline for fostering connection. In short, it’s not just who you know; This is the authenticity of the connection. WiT provides a venue for these relationships to grow by hosting a variety of events, from conference breakfasts to virtual webinars to local chapter gatherings. These events bring our members together to celebrate achievements, share experiences and build lasting connections.
This fall, for the first time, WiT will host the Wonder Woman Awards Gala in Los Angeles during the Los Angeles Fall Toy Preview. The highly anticipated event, previously held in New York City, will bring together top executives to honor outstanding women whose innovation and leadership have ignited and elevated the standards of toys, licensing, entertainment and consumer products. As our business landscape continues to evolve, the way WiT prioritizes
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 to close the gender gap, such as flexible work arrangements, pay equity and intellectual property rights protection. With an eye on the future, we ultimately drive economic growth and innovation for women by creating an inclusive environment.
WiT also recognizes the importance of working with industry partners. We hold strong beliefs and high expectations for our partners, level the playing field, provide resources, and remove barriers so that women can achieve their highest career goals. By aligning our goals and working together, we can strengthen communities and drive positive change and gender equality in 2025 and beyond.
In a rapidly changing industry, our community is our greatest asset. Together we can navigate uncertainty, improve profitability and build
A fairer future. At WiT, we remain steadfast in this 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 Los Angeles Fall Toy Preview issue. Click here to read the full article! Want to receive a printed copy of The Toy Book? Click here to view subscription options!
