Showcasing My Salah Mat at the New York Toy Fair!
My Salah Mat had the incredible opportunity to showcase its innovative products at one of the largest toy exhibitions in New York, USA. This marked a major milestone for the company, as it was the first time My Salah Mat participated in an event of this scale in the United States. Kamal Ali, the founder and CEO of My Salah Mat, had his fair share of concerns before the trip, from the visa process to navigating immigration at JFK Airport. However, to his pleasant surprise, everything went smoothly. The online visa application was fast and affordable, and upon arriving at JFK, he was through immigration after just three simple questions.
New York City was even more awe-inspiring than expected. For Kamal, it felt like stepping onto a movie set. From the steam rising from the streets, reminiscent of Batman's Gotham, to the dazzling lights of Times Square that evoked memories of Friends, and the towering skyscrapers that seemed straight out of Spider-Man—the city exceeded every expectation.
At the heart of this trip was the New York Toy Fair, where My Salah Mat and its latest product, My ABC Piano, were on display. Kamal and his colleague were there to introduce these innovative educational tools to the US market. My ABC Piano, in particular, holds a special place in Kamal’s heart, as it helps children learn phonics and spelling—areas he struggled with during his childhood due to dyslexia. The exhibition was a huge success, and the team had the chance to connect with attendees from across the USA. This experience also allowed Kamal to challenge some preconceptions, as he found the people he met to be warm and welcoming.
A highlight of the trip was the personal connection Kamal made with Syed Adnan, a New York local who went out of his way to make the trip even more memorable. Syed took Kamal on a tour of Queens, where they shared a delicious meal and prayed together at a local mosque. Upon learning of Kamal’s Bangladeshi roots, Syed ensured they visited Little Bangladesh, offering Kamal a heartwarming connection to his culture while abroad.
The response to My Salah Mat and My ABC Piano at the exhibition was overwhelmingly positive. Americans appreciated the unique and innovative approach behind the products, which aim to make education both engaging and fun for children. The event provided the team with invaluable insights and connections that will undoubtedly help expand My Salah Mat’s reach in international markets.
This first journey to the USA was a major success for My Salah Mat. From the smooth arrival to the enthusiastic reception at the New York Toy Fair, the experience surpassed all expectations. The company left New York with a wealth of new knowledge and connections, eager to continue its mission of creating educational products that resonate with families worldwide. My Salah Mat is excited for what the future holds and looks forward to its next steps in the global market.