Young mother Fola Williams, created a website that features toys, books and puzzles so her children can be represented through play.
Fola Williams, business analyst and a second generation British Nigerian from London struggled to find toys for her kids . She wanted to create a brand that reflects her ethnic background. Working in London she was unable to find toys and dolls that represented her heritage . Her Nigerian roots made her want to create an online retailer so other children could understand about different cultures and understand different peoples backgrounds.
“ I wanted to create a brand that helps children connect to their heritage and be proud of who they are. I have two sons, and I wanted to teach them about other cultures and our own rich background”.
Born and raised in London, Fola has always wanted to have more representation for peoples backgrounds. Her puzzles include a variety of cultures like Nigeria, Ghana and South Africa where you can learn about different tribes and cultural clothing.
Fola Williams believes many ethnic minorities struggle to find toys and games that represent diversity and their cultural background.
After giving birth to her children Fola had a look around toy shops and realised many people who are born in London and will have no idea about different cultural backgrounds.
To encourage parents with ethnic backgrounds or parents who want to understand other people’s cultures she created Sheni and Teni to provide a platform for young kids to buy a range of different items to play with.
Featured on the website are toys, puzzles and flashcards. Sheni and Teni have recently launched their superhero doll Thundergirl, a protagonist doll that saves the world and encourages kindness, helpfulness and compassion.
‘ I want kids to understand Africa and our tribes. I also want kids to explore other cultures and feel in touch with their background’
Since the launch of her website Fola has received a number of parents wishing her well and praising her for creating this platform.
“ A lot of mothers have contacted me to say what an amazing platform this is and how they are happy about what I have done for the community. They say ‘ We are so happy a black British women has created this brand, we have limited resources and access to toys reflecting our background therefore we are happy with the brand that Fola has created’
Products are available to buy from: www.sheniandteni.com
