At New York Toy Fair, we collectors always tend to focus on releases from the largest companies. If you dig deeper, there are always new and exciting brands to keep an eye out for. A good example of this is Iyanu.
Iyanu is a brand new animated series which launches on Cartoon Network on April 5, 2025, with episodes coming to Max the next day. The series is based on graphic novels by Nigerian author Roye Okupe. A magical girl series inspired by West African mythology, the titular Iyanu is destined to save Yorubaland from an ancient curse.
During our trip to Toy Fair, we initially found the booth of BrownToyBox while browsing the aisles. This company will be making their signature S.T.E.A.M. kits with Iyanu-theming, as well as puzzles and other educational products.
After some hunting, we were finally able to track down Kidazzle. Founded just last year by industry veterans, Iyanu will be their first line as a new company. They have many ideas for the line, such as action figures, plushes, and role play toys. They also may make dolls later down the line. The plan is to launch the toys late this year, in order to give the series time to form a fanbase. There were a few early prototypes on display.
The signature plush on display is Iyanu’s animal companion, Ekun. He glows when hugged, emulating when Iyanu purifies him of the curse. They also included a graphic of other plushes they are considering.
In the center of the table was Iyanu herself, in the form of a 3d-printed, hand-painted figurine.
Lastly, we had the prototype for Iyanu’s divine bow. There were also examples included of other potential role play items.
While we were not able to meet them at Toy Fair, Resurrection Games is the last company who currently has the license for Iyanu products. They will be producing a card game as well as other tabletop games.
If you would like to help ensure these products come to fruition, make sure to check out Iyanu on Cartoon Network and Max next month, and help spread the word about it!