About Us

 

HI! 

Rose and Rajiv here, two friends on a mission to create kids' toys that celebrate the diverse world they live in. Growing up, we rarely felt represented in the toys or media around us, or even in our history books, giving us little exposure to role models who were like us (disabled, female, queer, child of immigrants, etc.). Recognizing that this remains the reality for many kids in America, we founded Historicons, a toys and games company that celebrates diversity by using historical events and icons to represent, educate, and empower kids. Thanks for following along, as we grow and collaborate with other members of historically-excluded groups, to piece together a more inclusive world. 

Rose + Rajiv

 

Rose Perry, Ph.D., Co-Founder, (she/her) is a neuroscientist who specializes in child development, and the Founder/Executive Director of the applied research nonprofit organization, Social Creatures. Born with a rare form of dwarfism, Rose has learned first hand how representation and exposure to role models can empower children from historically excluded groups and inspire allyship in others.

Rajiv Fernandez, Co-Founder, (he/him) is a trained architect and an artist under the moniker Lil’ Icon. With a belief that sophisticated design is for all, he has published two books that playfully illustrate the connections between kids and adults. Using his signature bold and iconographic style, his artwork responds to the political and social climate in which we live and has been featured in The Washington Post, Buzzfeed, and billboards throughout New York City. He is proud to be queer, brown, and a child of immigrants.

Deonna Smith, Ph.D., Education Specialist, (she/her) is a school administrator and educational justice activist based in Los Angeles. She holds a doctorate in Educational Leadership for Social Justice. Before transitioning to leadership, Deonna taught students in Kindergarten-9th grade. As a teacher Deonna loved helping students develop their critical thinking skills through play and inquiry. A passion for social justice and love for teaching made Historicons the perfect match for Deonna. In her free time Deonna enjoys baking, hiking, and edu-taining on social media.