Mattel, Inc. kicks off worldwide celebrations to mark the 60th anniversary of Barbie, the number one fashion doll in the world designed to inspire the limitless potential in every girl.
In its 60th year, the brand is honoring the largest lineup of global female role models and taking the next step to close the Dream Gap by donating to like-minded organizations aimed at leveling the playing field for girls through the Mattel Children’s Foundation.
“Research* has shown that starting at age five, girls start doubting their potential, this is the Dream Gap,” says Lisa Perry, Brand Manager, Mattel Canada Inc. “And as the original girl empowerment brand we are working to help close it.”
This year, Olympic champion Tessa Virtue joins the ranks of inspirational women globally who are honored with a one-of-a-kind doll created in their likeness as part of the Barbie Shero Dolls collection. Tessa also takes on the role of Dream Gap Ambassador where she’ll show girls that through hard work, dedication and focus you can make any dream a reality.
Mattel Barbie Celebrates 60 Years as a Model of Empowerment for Girls
“I remember playing with Barbie as a young girl and imagining her as a doctor, an astronaut, a businesswoman and of course an athlete,” says Tessa Virtue. “My mom always joked I kept my dolls on a rigorous schedule, toting them around and expecting them to participate in all of my adventures (dressed accordingly, of course).
But the truth is, it allowed me to explore the world around me and live out my dreams at an early age. I hope that I can inspire the next generation of girls to dream big, follow their passions, and understand their limitless potential.”
In 2019, six iconic career dolls are relaunching in honor of Barbie’s diamond anniversary. These dolls include a pilot, news anchor, astronaut, firefighter, athlete and presidential candidate. Barbie will also launch its Proudly Pink Barbie doll which pays homage to Barbie’s heritage with stunning design to celebrate 60 years of fashion.
“For 60 years, Barbie has championed girls, inspired generations to believe through make believe and showed them that they have choices. With more than 200 careers, six runs for president and a trip to the moon before Neil Armstrong, Barbie continues to evolve to be a modern, relevant role model for all ages,” said Lisa McKnight, General Manager and Senior Vice President, Barbie.
Mattel Barbie Celebrates 60 Years as a Model of Empowerment for Girls
“The Barbie brand believes girls should never know a world, job, or dream, women haven’t conquered. Through our global platform, we are igniting a movement to help close the Dream Gap and further establish Barbie as the ultimate girl empowerment brand.”
