In celebration of the Barbie® brand’s 65th anniversary, Mattel announces the launch of a special-edition book, ‘My Barbie Story’ featuring heartfelt narratives from inspiring friends of the brand about what Barbie has meant to them over the years. This unique collection of 108 stories and pictures from well-known names, fans and collectors, will be available to buy today with all proceeds supporting UN Women UK as part of the Barbie Dream Gap Project’s initiative to level the playing field for girls.
Since 1959, Barbie has stood as a symbol of empowerment, imagination, and limitless possibilities. From childhood adventures to moments of self-discovery, Barbie has inspired and helped shape the lives of many. To honour this legacy, the ‘My Barbie Story’ book invited friends from around the world to look back and share their own Barbie stories.
‘My Barbie Story’ includes personal anecdotes from beloved celebrities such as Kim Jayde, Fashion Designer, Gert Johan Coetzee, Change Activist, Kovini Moodley and Jewellery Designer, Jenna Clifford, sharing how Barbie has influenced their lives and careers. Their inspiring tales highlight Barbie’s enduring impact across generations and industries from arts, sports, STEM and so much more.
At the local launch in Sandton, Johannesburg, Fashion Designer, Gert-Johan Coetzee said “Barbie has always been more than just a doll, she’s a symbol of empowerment and limitless possibilities. Growing up, I found inspiration in Barbie’s boldness and her ability to reinvent herself. Being featured in this book is an incredible honor, and it reflects how Barbie has not only influenced my career but has also encouraged countless individuals to pursue their dreams fearlessly.”
“I am so truly humbled to be part of such an impactful and important project. Representation matters, and to be chosen to represent my family, Zimbabwe, South Africa, and African women means the world! Thank you, Barbie, and congratulations on 65 years of inspiring children across the globe to dream! Anything is possible,” said Media Personality & Entrepreneur Kim Jayde.
Krista Berger, Senior Vice President of Barbie and Global Head of Dolls at Mattel adds “As we celebrate the 65th anniversary of Barbie, ‘My Barbie Story’ honours the dreams and limitless possibilities Barbie has inspired across generations. This collection of personal reflections highlights the unique bond people share with Barbie—a symbol of self-expression and reminder that you can be anything. With proceeds supporting UN Women UK, we continue our mission to empower girls everywhere to believe in their limitless potential. Now, we invite you to share your own Barbie story and join us in celebrating her enduring legacy.”
The brand’s 65th anniversary is more than looking back on how Barbie has impacted culture; it’s about shaping the future. As part of the Barbie Dream Gap Project, all proceeds from this book will be donated to UN Women UK, a force dedicated to gender equality and the empowerment of women. The Mattel Children’s Foundation will also contribute towards the donation. The Barbie Dream Gap Project is the brand’s global mission dedicated to helping close the gaps that hold girls back from reaching their full potential.
“We are proud to bring our Play it Forward initiatives to life through this project to stand with UN Women UK to foster gender equality and create a more equitable future for all,” remarked Nancy Molenda, Vice President of Global Corporate Events & Philanthropy. “Together, we hope to turn our shared values into impactful actions in the communities where we live, work and play”.
Tabitha Morton, Executive Director UN Women UK adds “UN Women is committed to gender equality and empowering all women, so joining this moment with the Barbie brand—whose legacy also centres on empowerment and inspiring generations—is truly exciting. Through this book and its stories, we aim to ensure every woman and girl has access to safety, choice and a voice through our UN Women programs worldwide.
The book is now available for purchase on Amazon. Barbie is encouraging fans to share their own Barbie stories across social platforms using the hashtag #mybarbiestory.
Story of Gert-Johan Coetzee:
Barbie wasn’t just a toy in my childhood; she was the silent companion to my dreams, the conduit through which I discovered the beauty of self-expression. Growing up in the vibrant landscape of South Africa, she became my canvas, each ensemble a testament to the boundless imagination she inspired within me.
Throughout my childhood, I had a special routine that solidified my connection with Barbie: I would fashion her elaborate gowns from delicate flowers and tissue paper. It was a magical routine that whisked me away into a world where creativity knew no bounds. In the heart of our garden, amidst the fragrant blooms and dappled sunlight, I meticulously crafted intricate designs that mirrored the dreams swirling in my mind.
As the years passed, my passion for fashion blossomed, fuelled by the memories of those tender moments spent with Barbie. I embarked on a journey to turn my childhood fantasies into tangible achievements, facing adversity with unwavering determination.
Through hard work and perseverance, I transformed my dreams into reality. Today, as my designs grace the runways of the world, I am reminded of the debt of gratitude I owe to Barbie. She was more than just an inspiration; she was a muse, a guiding light that led me through life’s twists and turns. In every Barbie creation, I pay homage to her enduring legacy, a reminder of the resilience and strength that lie within us all. She taught me to embrace my uniqueness, to believe in the power of my dreams, and never to shy away from the boundless potential that resides within.
As I continue to share my Barbie passion with the world, I carry her spirit with me, a testament to the transformative power of imagination and the enduring legacy of childhood dreams. For in the journey from playtime fantasies to runway realities, Barbie remains my steadfast companion, forever woven into the fabric of my existence.
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