In a world increasingly interconnected yet grappling with cultural displacement, Tayech Berihun saw an opportunity to empower children through playful learning. Her journey as the founder of LayuToys is not just about creating toys—it’s about preserving language, celebrating diversity, and fostering cultural pride in children. In this spirited interview, Tayech shares the inspiration, challenges, and vision behind LayuToys and its flagship product, AHADU, while offering insight into her entrepreneurial journey.
The Inspiration Behind LayuToys
Tayech Berihun’s personal story of growing up bilingual and bicultural is at the heart of LayuToys. “Being born in Germany and growing up Ethiopian, I experienced both worlds,” she explains. “This blend of cultures gave me a sense of identity that I want to pass on to children in the diaspora.” LayuToys’ first product, AHADU, is a talking flashcard toy that teaches Amharic and English, reflecting Tayech’s commitment to helping children maintain connections with their heritage while benefiting from multilingualism.
What’s in a Name?
The name LayuToys carries deep personal significance. “It’s a blend of names that represent the combined influences in my life,” says Tayech. More than just a brand name, LayuToys is a tribute to the journey and people who have supported the brand’s mission. “Layu represents the richness of diversity—every child can find themselves in the toys we create.”
Celebrating Bilingualism and Cultural Diversity
Cultural identity and bilingualism are the bedrock of LayuToys’ mission. Tayech recalls how growing up bilingual helped her connect with her Ethiopian roots while thriving in a different culture. “Our products are designed to make language learning fun and meaningful,” she says, adding that AHADU helps children “embrace their cultural roots while gaining the cognitive benefits of being multilingual.” This cultural pride is what Tayech hopes to instill in children, helping them navigate their worlds with confidence and pride.
Overcoming Challenges and the Birth of AHADU
As a first-time entrepreneur, Tayech faced numerous challenges bringing AHADU to life. “There’s so much behind the scenes—finding designers, managing logistics, dealing with legal matters,” she recalls. What helped her navigate these complexities? “Research and moral support were key. I also had a great advisor who guided me through the process.” Tayech’s patience, persistence, and reliance on mentorship paid off, culminating in a product that bridges the gap between play and learning.
AHADU: Merging Audio and Visual for Enhanced Learning
AHADU’s design goes beyond simple language learning; it’s an interactive experience. “Kids insert flashcards into the toy, and AHADU displays the word visually while saying it out loud in Amharic and English,” Tayech explains. This dual sensory approach enhances word recognition and pronunciation, making language acquisition more engaging and effective. “By seeing and hearing the words, children grasp languages faster,” she adds. It’s a learning tool disguised as a toy—exactly what Tayech envisioned for bilingual children everywhere.
Reception and Impact of AHADU
Since its launch, AHADU has garnered positive feedback from children, parents, and educators alike. “Many have told me that AHADU fills a significant gap in the market,” Tayech beams. Parents appreciate its educational value, while educators see it as an innovative tool for bilingual learning. For the Ethiopian and immigrant communities, AHADU is more than a toy—it’s a bridge between generations and cultures.
Expanding Horizons: Future Languages and Cultures
The future of LayuToys is filled with exciting possibilities. “We’re expanding to include more Ethiopian languages, like Afaan Oromo and Tigrinya, and we’re planning to introduce European languages like German,” Tayech reveals. By incorporating more languages and cultures, LayuToys aims to create toys that celebrate diverse identities. “We’re also working on our next groundbreaking toy, designed for older age groups,” she adds, signaling that LayuToys is poised to grow its impact even further.
Lessons Learned: Hindsight and Growth
Reflecting on her journey, Tayech acknowledges that certain aspects of her entrepreneurial path could have been smoother with better planning. “If I could go back, I’d do more research on logistics and manufacturing from the start,” she says. Seeking guidance earlier would have also helped streamline the process. However, she sees every challenge as a learning opportunity that has shaped LayuToys into what it is today. “The bumps along the way have helped me grow.”
Staying Inspired: Community as Motivation
Tayech’s drive to innovate in the educational toy space comes from a deep sense of purpose. “I stay motivated by my desire to support the Ethiopian community,” she says. LayuToys is her way of giving back, acknowledging the sacrifices made by Ethiopian and immigrant parents. “Seeing the impact that LayuToys has on families keeps me going.”
The Future of LayuToys: A Global Vision
When asked about the future, Tayech envisions LayuToys expanding beyond Ethiopia to serve the broader African community. “We want to address language barriers, especially for those who only speak their colonial language,” she explains. By creating educational toys that introduce indigenous languages, LayuToys aims to help children connect with their true identity. “In 5-10 years, I hope LayuToys will have made a meaningful impact worldwide, helping children bridge cultural gaps and celebrate their heritage.”
A Vision Rooted in Empowerment
Tayech Berihun’s journey with LayuToys is a testament to the power of bilingual learning, cultural pride, and entrepreneurship. Through AHADU and future products, LayuToys aims to make a lasting impact on children worldwide, helping them embrace their roots while navigating a globalized world. For Tayech, it’s not just about toys—it’s about empowering the next generation to be proud of who they are.
