The initiative will give students an opportunity to hear from industry experts about the varied opportunities available in the toy and game industry
The BTHA has announced the return of the Student Design Seminar, an initiative aimed at inspiring university design students and nurturing the next wave of toy and game innovators.
Taking place on the final day of the show in the Henley Suites, students will hear from a panel of celebrated independent inventors, including Gary Pyper of Fun-Damental Invention, board game inventor Ellie Dix, and Fi Murray of Making Things Studio. Together, they will offer invaluable guidance for those eager to break into the world of toy and game invention.
Majen Immink, Head of Toy Fair said: “We are so pleased to be able to bring back the Student Design Seminar this year. The toy industry is so vibrant and creative, and this seminar is a great opportunity to inspire the next generation of up and coming designers to think about the toy industry as a future career destination.”
The initiative, a partnership between Mojo Nation and the BTHA, will give students a well-rounded understanding of the varied opportunities available in the toy and game industry. The seminar will also showcase perspectives from leading in-house design teams. Speakers include Alpesh Patel, VP of Global Toy Design at TOMY; Bob Moog, President of University Games; Rory Edwards, Design & Development Manager at Vivid Goliath; and Alex Reynolds, Global Head of R&D & Licensing at Casdon.
Beyond the seminar, students will have the opportunity to explore the show floor, with scheduled stand visits arranged with exhibitors. These visits will offer valuable insight into emerging industry trends and the wider market landscape, inspiring innovative product ideas.
Toy Fair 2026 runs Tuesday 20 to Thursday 22 January at Olympia, London.
