When Kokila K lost her husband at the age of 42, she faced a mountain of challenges. Penniless and with three sons to support, her future seemed uncertain. But today, at 63, Kokila stands as a symbol of resilience and purpose, helming Woodbee Toys—a ₹1 crore wooden toy venture that champions sustainability and empowers rural women.
A Second Chapter Begins
In 2020, at the age of 59, Kokila founded Woodbee Toys in Walajapet, Tamil Nadu, after decades of balancing personal tragedy and professional responsibility. Her company, known for producing over 110 non-toxic, sustainable wooden toys, embodies her belief that it’s never too late to start something meaningful. Her journey highlights how age is just a number when persistence and passion lead the way.
Rising from Loss
Kokila’s life changed dramatically when her husband, a pesticide distributor, succumbed to a lung tumor caused by prolonged chemical exposure. Left with mounting medical debts and a modest government salary as a Junior Telecom Officer, she had only ₹200 left after loan deductions. Determined to provide for her family, she took over her late husband’s fumigation and wooden box supply business.
After a year and a half, Kokila pivoted away from fumigation—given its role in her husband’s illness—and focused solely on manufacturing wooden boxes. Her daily routine was grueling: juggling factory operations in the morning, her government job during the day, and factory work in the evening.
From Boxes to Toys
Years later, when the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the export market, Kokila and her family decided to venture into wooden toys. The idea struck Kokila during a market visit where she noticed the dominance of low-quality plastic toys. With her woodworking experience, she and her family began crafting neem wood teethers as a natural, non-toxic alternative to plastic toys.
This shift wasn’t just about business; it was personal. Kokila wanted to ensure children, including her grandchildren, had access to safe, sustainable toys. The family’s Instagram-based marketing strategy resonated with parents, rapidly increasing demand for their thoughtful products.
A Family Affair
Woodbee Toys thrives as a family-run enterprise. Kokila’s daughters-in-law play key roles—one manages social media while another oversees product quality. Even her third daughter-in-law, a doctor by profession, contributes passionately. Together, the family channels customer feedback to refine their toys, ensuring every product exceeds expectations.
Empowering Women, Transforming Lives
At its core, Woodbee Toys is more than just a business. The venture employs 40–50 people, most of whom are women from nearby villages. Many workers had little to no formal education but, under Kokila’s mentorship, became skilled machine operators.
“The women were initially hesitant, but now they’re the first to embrace new challenges,” Kokila shares. This supportive work environment has helped uplift countless families, fostering pride and empowerment among the workforce.
Toys with a Purpose
Woodbee Toys prioritizes safety and sustainability. Using untreated neem, pine, and beech woods, along with certified non-toxic paints, the company adheres to rigorous quality standards. The toys are designed for open-ended play, inspired by Waldorf education principles that encourage creativity and imagination.
Customer testimonials highlight the durability and thoughtfulness of the toys. “I’ve been purchasing from Woodbee Toys for three years, and the quality is unmatched. Even after heavy use, the paint hasn’t chipped, and the toys remain in great condition,” says Yunita Almeida, a loyal customer.
Scaling New Heights
With monthly revenues of ₹20–30 lakh, Woodbee Toys produces 10,000–20,000 toys per month. Their products are sold through major retailers like FirstCry, Hamleys, and Funskool, alongside direct sales via Instagram and their website. The company is also exploring global markets, with trial exports to Australia and the USA already underway.
A Legacy of Resilience
For Kokila, Woodbee Toys represents more than financial success—it’s a testament to grit, determination, and the power of community. “Education and knowledge are the greatest assets we have,” she reflects.
As Kokila looks toward the future, she remains committed to innovation, sustainability, and empowering those around her. Her journey is proof that life’s challenges can be stepping stones to greatness, and with purpose and perseverance, anything is possible.
Woodbee Toys is not just a business—it’s a movement, redefining entrepreneurship, sustainability, and empowerment, one wooden toy at a time.