Manita Schaapman, Co-Founder and Creative Director of The Mouse Mansion Company, will take the stage at the prestigious Bologna Children’s Book Fair 2025 as part of the Bologna Licensing Trade Fair/Kids program. Her panel, titled “Sam & Julia – The Mouse Mansion’s Inspiring Journey: From Handmade Miniatures to a Global Brand,” will be held on Tuesday, April 1stfrom 3:20 PM to 3:50 PM in the Licensing Conference Room, Hall 29 Mall 2.
In her talk, Manita Schaapman will reveal how her mother Karina Schaapman’s intricate handmade world — built from cardboard boxes, vintage fabrics, and repurposed materials — blossomed into The Mouse Mansion, an internationally recognised children’s brand. From bestselling books and award-winning animation to creative toys, a flagship store in Amsterdam, and an interactive game currently in development, the journey of Sam & Julia is nothing short of extraordinary.
“It’s a real honor to speak at Bologna this year,” says Manita Schaapman.
“The Mouse Mansion started as a labour of love, and it’s incredibly moving to see how it has grown into a brand that continues to inspire creativity, kindness, and connection in families around the world.”
The panel will highlight key milestones in the brand’s evolution — from its humble beginnings in the Netherlands to international TV success — and explore how the core message of Sam & Julia continues to resonate with young audiences and licensing partners globally.
Sam & Julia will participate at Bologna in Hall 29/F18 – Mall 2 (the area between halls 29 and 30).
Event Details:
Title: Sam & Julia – The Mouse Mansion’s Inspiring Journey: From Handmade Miniatures to a Global Brand
Speaker: Manita Schaapman, Co-Founder & Creative Director, The Mouse Mansion Company (Netherlands)
When: Tuesday, April 1st, 2025 | 3:20 PM – 3:50 PM
Where: Licensing Conference Room, Hall 29 Mall 2 – Bologna Licensing Trade Fair/Kids
