21-year-old lady who built a thriving toy business out of frustration

In the realm of childhood play, toys serve as more than just objects of amusement; they are mirrors reflecting a child’s identity, imagination, and aspirations. For too long, however, the toy industry has fallen short in providing adequate representation for children of diverse backgrounds. Sabelle Beraki, a visionary Eritrean entrepreneur hailing from Stockholm, Sweden, recognized this disparity and embarked on a mission to rewrite the narrative by creating a space where Black children could see themselves reflected in the toys they play with.

A Childhood Void Inspires Entrepreneurial Vision

Sabelle’s journey began with a poignant realization rooted in her own childhood experiences. Growing up, she keenly felt the absence of dolls and toys that resonated with her identity as a Black girl. This void left an indelible mark, shaping her perception of self and instilling a deep-seated desire for change. Determined to spare future generations from the same sense of invisibility, Sabelle set out to fill the gap in representation by founding Bell’s Toys.

Importance of Representation in Toys

At the heart of Sabelle’s mission lies a profound understanding of the transformative power of representation. Research underscores the pivotal role that toys play in shaping a child’s sense of self-esteem, cultural identity, and worldview. By offering dolls that authentically reflect the diversity of Black experiences, Sabelle seeks to empower children to embrace their heritage, celebrate their uniqueness, and cultivate a sense of pride in who they are.

Overcoming Setbacks and Challenges

Launching Bell’s Toys was not without its share of obstacles. Sabelle encountered funding constraints and manufacturing challenges, navigating a landscape where diversity in toy design was often an afterthought. Undeterred by setbacks, she persisted, working tirelessly to secure resources and forge partnerships that would bring her vision to life. Through sheer resilience and unwavering determination, Sabelle transformed adversity into opportunity, laying the foundation for Bell’s Toys to flourish.

Embracing Black Joy and Representation

Central to Sabelle’s ethos is the celebration of Black joy and resilience. Her dolls, meticulously crafted with attention to detail, exude vibrancy, vitality, and exuberance. Gone are the days of somber-faced figurines; in their place stand dolls with radiant smiles, expressive features, and a palpable sense of joy. Through her creations, Sabelle seeks to foster a culture of inclusivity, where every child feels seen, valued, and affirmed.

A Thriving Business and Promising Future

Today, Bell’s Toys stands as a testament to Sabelle’s unwavering commitment to excellence and equity. With thirteen retail stores across Sweden and plans for expansion on the horizon, the impact of her work reverberates far beyond borders. As she prepares to unveil a new West African-inspired doll, Sabelle’s journey serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring a new generation of entrepreneurs to dream boldly, act courageously, and champion the cause of representation for all.

In Sabelle Beraki’s world, every child has the opportunity to see themselves reflected in the toys they play with—a world where diversity is celebrated, joy is abundant, and the possibilities are limitless. Through her tireless advocacy and entrepreneurial spirit, she continues to shape a future where every child feels empowered to write their own story, one toy at a time.

At just 11 years old, Dionn Megginson embarked on a journey that defied convention and set her on a trajectory of academic excellence. Now, at the age of 15, she stands as a beacon of inspiration, having achieved remarkable feats that have captured the attention and admiration of people around the world.

Born and raised in Texas, Dionn Megginson exhibited an exceptional thirst for knowledge from a tender age. Her parents, Sharon and David Megginson, noticed her unique aptitude early on and nurtured her talents with unwavering support and encouragement.

At the age of 11, Dionn made headlines as she embarked on her high school journey, becoming a member of the inaugural class at the Early College Academy. Despite her young age, Dionn embraced the challenges of high school with determination and enthusiasm. She delved into a rigorous academic curriculum, including honors Biology, English, Spanish, AP Human Geography, Dance, and Culinary Arts.

Dionn’s rapid progression through the educational system was a testament to her exceptional abilities. Her journey was marked by numerous achievements, from receiving the Principal’s Award each year in elementary school to skipping grades through credit by exam. By the age of 15, Dionn had accumulated an impressive unweighted GPA of 4.0 and amassed 51 college hours, setting a historic precedent as the youngest student to graduate from Cedar Hill ISD with such distinction. Click here to continue reading about Dionn.

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