In the increasingly vital field of STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) education, IDEA Lab Kids has made a name for itself not only for its groundbreaking approach to learning but also for its commitment to empowering women in leadership. Under the Lyricos Learning umbrella, the franchise network includes more than 50% women entrepreneurs and is led by a dynamic team of female executives who are shaping the future of STEAM education.
The Visionary Leadership of Devina Bhojwani
At the forefront of this movement is President Devina Bhojwani, a leader with a deep passion for education and innovation. Before joining IDEA Lab Kids, Bhojwani owned multiple Gymboree Play & Music centers, where she oversaw a team of 55 teachers and became one of the top-performing franchisees in the network.
Her journey with IDEA Lab Kids began when her daughter attended one of the franchise’s summer camps, sparking an interest in the brand’s hands-on, inquiry-based learning model.
“In many ways, my life journey has been defined by my involvement with education,” Bhojwani said.
She initially joined as an investor and board member in 2017 and was elected president in 2019. Today, Bhojwani focuses on international expansion, technology integration and equitable access to STEAM education for children around the world.
“As a multi-unit franchisee for almost a decade, I developed a level of experience that has been helpful in this position as president,” Bhojwani said. “When I talk with IDEA Lab Kids franchise owners — especially women — I am able to understand and empathize with their perspective. We all want to provide more equity and access to schools and districts as a one-stop-shop for STEAM classes.”
Jennifer Franklin’s Passion for STEAM Education
Another key leader driving IDEA Lab Kids forward is Jennifer Bertram, the STEAM success manager. Bertram brings 17 years of experience from the Hawthorne School District, where she built STEM and STEAM programs from the ground up, developed curriculum and created districtwide coaching systems for K-8 educators.
“I spent over a decade teaching at the elementary level, working on site to build STEM programs from scratch,” Bertram said. “I was pulling resources from everywhere, which became my passion, along with forging partnerships with local organizations to expose children to the opportunities within these fields.”
Now, Bertram plays a pivotal role in onboarding large school districts onto the brand’s proprietary ed-tech platform, STEAM on Demand®, which offers customized, scalable STEAM education content.
“One thing I’ve always been particularly passionate about is supporting girls in STEM,” she said. “The earlier we can get kids involved in STEAM, the better chance we have of maintaining their interest and enthusiasm for future STEAM career prospects. Simultaneously, this effort works toward closing the gender and equity gaps that currently exist in these fields.”
The IDEA Lab Kids Model
IDEA Lab Kids stands out in the STEAM education space with its well-rounded programming, which includes after-school classes, camps and birthday parties. These offerings are powered by a mission to make STEAM learning accessible, engaging and adaptable to a wide range of learning environments.
With its strong foundation, IDEA Lab Kids continues to grow with both new and returning franchisees. Entrepreneurs who are passionate about education and innovation will find a comprehensive support system that includes in-depth training, site selection assistance, top-tier STEAM content and an expert team of professionals who understand the education sector inside and out.
The brand’s female leadership is more than symbolic; it’s a driving force behind IDEA Lab Kids’ success. By supporting women at every level of the business, the company is helping shape a future where more children, regardless of background or gender, can explore the world of STEAM.
For more information on franchising with IDEA Lab Kids, visit: https://1851franchise.com/lyricoslearning/info.