We were lucky to catch up with Dr. Zabina Bhasin recently and have shared our conversation below.

Dr. Zabina, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?

Several years ago my kids came home and told me that they were being bullied. Some kids at school were asking questions about their Indian culture, and teasing them for being different. It reminded me of my experience as a child when I was bullied for looking and being different, and although my children are third generation Americans, they were having the same experience. I knew something had to be done to make a change. I thought to myself that if kids were taught about other cultures at an early age it would shift the dynamics in classrooms and change the interactions at school. I wanted to create a tool to teach other kids about our Indian culture and family and also teach my children and all children about other cultures around the world. I created In KidZ which incorporates games, activities and crafts to teach kids about other people’s cultures while also making it fun. In KidZ kits introduces kids to countries, cultures and celebrations through language, food, history, music, and more. Especially today, when there is so much conversation about what young students should or should not be learning, as a child psychiatrist, mom and woman of South Asian descent, I believe we should be broadening kids’ knowledge and creating global citizens that embrace and celebrate all people.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I have a background as a child psychiatrist which plays a role in what I do today as the CEO of In KidZ. Because I have expertise in diversity, equity and inclusion and mental health, my goals was to create products to teach diversity and belonging, and also teach kids to be compassionate and empathetic which is so important in creating an environment that supports positive mental health outcomes for all children.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

I created In KidZ in 2020 and I was entering a completely new industry. Owning and managing a toy company has been a true learning experience and a test of my resilience. I not only had to learn how to develop a product line, but also supply chain, marketing, selling to retailers, and so much more. My superpower is making connections, and I know how to surround myself with people who are smart and experts in their field. I’m proud of how much the company has grown and although there have been growing pains along the way, I also believe I’m teaching my children the importance of staying committed, overcoming challenges, and celebrating the small wins.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

Since the toy industry was new to me, I wanted to get involved and now I’m a member of several Boards and organizations. It’s a way to contribute to the industry, and also a way for me to connect and meet industry leaders. People begin to see you as a partner, and that helps build your brand.

Contact Info:

• Website: InKidZCo.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inkidzco/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/in-kidz/