We meet the Gold Coast sisters transforming children’s drawings into keepsakes that celebrate creativity and preserve childhood magic.
In an era where screens often dominate children’s attention, two Gold Coast sisters are on a mission to put pencils, paintbrushes, and pure imagination back in the spotlight.
Anja and Stella Lewis, founders of NxtGenTheory, have created a unique way for families to preserve and celebrate their children’s artistic milestones. From Christmas cards and wrapping paper to personalised stickers, NxtGenTheory transforms kids’ original drawings into high-quality keepsakes – ensuring those precious masterpieces last well beyond the fridge door.
With over seven years of experience in early childhood education, Anja understands the vital role creativity plays in a child’s development.
“I’ve seen firsthand how creativity fuels confidence, problem-solving skills, and emotional connection in children,” she says. “We wanted to create something that keeps childhood magic alive—something tangible, lasting, and filled with love.”
Children’s drawings turned into birthday cards.
The process is refreshingly simple for busy families. Parents send in a child’s artwork, and the team at NxtGenTheory transforms it into Australian-made, eco-friendly products that can be enjoyed for years to come. Adding to the feel-good factor, 10 per cent of every sale is donated to a nominated school, childcare centre, or The Smith Family.
“A drawing is more than just lines on paper. It’s a snapshot of a child’s mind at that moment in time,” Anja explains. “We’ve watched children light up when they see their art turned into something the whole family can enjoy. It’s about valuing their creativity and making them feel proud.”
The sisters see their business as more than just a creative service. It’s also their way of responding to what they describe as the “screen-time epidemic.” They fondly recall their own childhood, filled with cubby houses built from couch cushions, spontaneous dress-ups with their dad, and games of hopscotch in the street.
“We want today’s kids to have those same hands-on experiences,” Anja says. “Turning their art into something special is one way to remind them, and their families, just how important that creative play is.”
Any drawing can become a treasured keepsake.
NxtGenTheory’s products are available to families across Australia, with simple online ordering and delivery. The sisters also work with schools and childcare centres to encourage creativity in children and to strengthen bonds between families and communities. “We love working alongside educators to not only encourage imagination but also give back in ways that make a lasting difference,” says Anja.
For parents seeking to celebrate their children’s drawings while supporting a cause, NxtGenTheory provides a thoughtful, personal, and lasting alternative to mass-produced mementos. One that transforms every doodle into a treasure.
Join the NxtGen community at nxtgentheory.com.au
Spanning Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and beyond, Kids on the Coast is an online guide and printed free magazine for parents. With kids events and activities, attractions, things to do with kids, schools and education, school holiday guides, health & wellbeing for families, parenting and lifestyle news. Located on Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast & Brisbane, QLD.
