By Allison Watkinson
TLL Reporter
The Point.1888 has secured new licensing partnerships for Kukua’s Super Sema childrens’ series to coincide with the release of its third season.
Kukua is aiming to expand the Super Sema franchise to include consumer products, books, and interactive digital experiences that focus on science, technology, engineering, art and math.
The company signed The Point.1888 last March to manage Super Sema’s licensing program and retail initiatives for the U.K. and Eire.
The Point.1888 recently brokered licensing deals with Macmillan Children’s Books, Sweet Cherry, and Poetic Brands for the Super Sema franchise.
Developed to increase media representation and STEAM education for young children around the world, Super Sema is an African-animated kids’ superhero franchise that has amassed over a hundred million views since its premiere in 2021.
The Youtube Originals series is produced by Lupita Nyong’o, Claudia Lloyd, Lucrezia Bisignani, and several former executives from Disney and Warner Bros.
Macmillan Children’s Books will serve as the brands’ master publisher in the UK, the Republic of Ireland, and the Commonwealth countries.
The company is launching an extensive collection of published works that will include activity books, sticker books, novels, audio books and more. The collection is expected to hit the retail market in Spring 2024.
The independent children’s book publisher Sweet Cherry has acquired licensing rights to develop a line of Super Sema-themed annuals, diaries and journals. The company will publish its first annual in 2024.
The licensed apparel company Poetic Brands will produce a range of licensed Super Sema swimwear, nightwear, clothing and luggage for children.
“We’re excited to be able to deliver on fan demand in the UK with such top-tier companies as Macmillan Children’s Books, Sweet Cherry, and Poetic Brands,” said Kukua’s Vanessa Ford.
“I want children who watch the show and read the books to see themselves in each page. I’ve seen with my own kids that positive black role models show them that they too can be the heroes, go on adventures, and save the world!”
These new partnerships follow the launch of dolls and plush in the U.S. region with the brands’ master toy partner Just Play.
In addition, Penguin Random House and Bendon are developing a U.S. publishing program for the Super Sema franchise.
“It’s no surprise that the Super Sema franchise has amassed such a huge following so quickly and its passionate and engaged fans deserve products that are fresh and exciting,” said The Point.1888’s Katie Wilkinson.
“The early brand licensing push in the US has been hugely successful, proving the consumer demand for Super Sema products. We’ve been thrilled with the incredible response we’ve had from partners and retailers so far and look forward to seeing this programme grow and grow.”
Super Sema’s third season launched this week on Youtube alongside several new music videos.