Meet Isaiah “PZay” Aladejobi

I am Isaiah Aladejobi, a multidisciplinary artist, designer, and educator born and raised in Washington, DC. As a first-generation Nigerian American, my life has been shaped by the intersection of two worlds—my parents’ cultural traditions and the realities of growing up Black in America. This duality deeply informs my artistic practice, which focuses on community, identity, and the importance of play as a language of connection.

Kole grew out of this journey. Inspired by African design, childhood creativity, and the need for tools that bring people together, I designed Kole as more than a toy—it’s a cultural connector. It invites builders of all ages to explore their imagination, preserve heritage, and create meaningful moments across generations.

Through my work, I strive to challenge the idea that play is something we must leave behind. Instead, I see play as a powerful act of healing, storytelling, and community building. Kole reflects this philosophy: every piece is an opportunity to build not just structures, but bridges between people, cultures, and ideas.

My practice has been featured at the United Nations, the National Children’s Museum, and the Smithsonian Hirshhorn. But most importantly, it lives in classrooms, community spaces, and family homes—where imagination and connection matter most.