Founded in 2019, Philly & Friends was inspired by my daughter, whose nickname is Philly. I wanted to create a black children's character that kids everywhere could love and identify with. One who is strong, confident and happy, goes on adventures, laughs from within and loves wholeheartedly with tight hugs and lots of kisses.

When I had my daughter in 2017, I found few quality children's books that featured a black or minority ethnic main character. At the time, less than 1% of children's books in the UK featured a Black main character.

Philly & Friends was born out of a desire to see children grow up to see beauty in themselves and others, to believe they can be anything they want to be. I firmly believe representation matters - all children deserve to see themselves and others represented in the books they read, the toys they play with, and the media they consume.

This is where our thoughtfully designed, educational and empowering children's products come in. I hope you love them as much as I do.

Lots of love, Vese xxx