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Building a Better Future, One Toy at a Time With Aleisha Lade from Playful Eco Toys

From safeguarding the skies to protecting the planet, Aleisha Lade is a woman of ambition with a heart for creating fun, sustainable toys that benefit not only children but the environment too!

After serving in a security role with the Australian Air Force, Aleisha developed a strong foundation in discipline and adaptability. Now, she’s implementing those same skills into Playful Eco, an e-commerce toy shop dedicated to providing eco-friendly and sustainable toys for families, teachers, and childcare centres.  

Though running an eco-conscious business does come with its challenges, Aleisha emphasises the importance of maintaining a positive mindset, which has helped her navigate obstacles and ultimately, grow her business along the way.  

If there’s one woman she looks up to, it’s her mother, who has been a key role model in all aspects of her life.  

“My mum would definitely be my best role model when achieving success because she has always showed me strength, love and a good work ethic,” Aleisha says with a smile.

Aleisha also finds inspiration in successful female entrepreneurs, particularly Samantha Hurst, the founder of Click Start Digital, from whom she purchased Playful Eco. She admires Samantha’s mission of empowering others to start online businesses and appreciates the guidance she received in setting up her own successful venture.

Outside of Playful Eco, Aleisha enjoys spending time with family and friends. She values these moments as a way to stay grounded and maintain a strong work-life balance.  

She advises "including in your week at least one self-care day, a day where you can relax, unwind, and do the things that you love.”

“For me, I love spending time with family and friends, especially catching up with my sisters and seeing my nieces and nephews on the weekends.”

Having experienced the challenges of business firsthand, she encourages others to stay committed to their dreams and keep pushing forward no matter what.

“Don’t doubt yourself—just do it,” she says.  

“I would also say that staying positive and turning challenges into learning experiences has really helped me through each step of the way.”

More than just an online toy store, Playful Eco reflects Aleisha’s passion. As a driven and ambitious business owner, Aleisha has created a space where sustainability meets education, ensuring every toy nurtures a child’s development while protecting the planet for future generations.

Parents can trust in her vision, knowing that every product is carefully chosen for its quality, safety, and positive impact.


What's an item that's always in your handbag?


“Sunglasses”

What's your mid-arvo routine?

“After a long day, I find unwinding with a good book or TV show helps me switch off from thinking about work. A good coffee helps too!”

If you could describe yourself in 3 words, what would they be?

“Ambitious, generous and considerate.”

playfuleco.com.au