July 28, 2023 | Toy Fair® exhibitors will have the opportunity to connect with hundreds of university students with the return of Toy Fair Student Congress, taking place October 1 during the four-day show in New York City.
Student Congress is an exclusive day-long series of events for undergraduates of various disciplines who would like to learn about and make connections within the toy industry. Participating students will be treated to a networking breakfast, presentations from industry insiders, and an “Open House” visit to booths on the show floor. Exhibiting companies that wish to participate in the open house have until Friday, September 8 to complete this form.
Interested students will have the opportunity to have their portfolios reviewed by The Artisan Social Club, a non-profit that brings industry professionals together to provide insight, direction, and mentorship to the next generation of creatives, and to participate in mentorship and recruitment opportunities within the industry, hosted at The Toy Foundation™ booth.
Kathleen Campisano, global chief marketing officer of Beacon Media Group, will lead a panel discussion with Mattel, Build-A-Bear, Crazy Aaron’s, and other industry leaders that will offer students a better understanding of the scope of careers available in the toy industry. Jennifer Caveza, chair of Toy Design at Otis College of Art & Design, will also share her own experience across the children’s entertainment space, where she has held executive roles with toy manufacturers, at major studios, and with world-renowned brands. Additional speakers will be announced soon.
“Student Congress is an outstanding opportunity for exhibiting companies to have a real impact on the industry’s future changemakers and help foster their growth,” said Kimberly Carcone, executive vice president of global market events at The Toy Association. “We invite you to open your doors for students to experience the awe-inspiring innovation happening in play and the vast opportunities available to them in the toy community.”
Toy Fair will take place September 30 to October 3 at the Javits Center in New York City. More information about the schedule of events for Student Congress and additional Toy Fair events can be found at ToyFairNY.com.