NEWS

Barbie unveils new ‘Shero’ ahead of International Women’s Day

Published on: 3rd March 2020

Barbie is honouring Dina Asher-Smith as a record-making sportswoman by spotlighting her accomplishments.

Barbie has unveiled a one-of-a-kind doll of Dina Asher-Smith. Gold medallist Dina is the fastest British woman in history, World Champion, and four times European Champion. Barbie is honouring Dina as a record-making sportswoman by spotlighting her accomplishments and how she inspires a new generation in what they can achieve.

This year, Barbie is spotlighting female role models in sports, in an effort to close the Dream Gap; the time when girls start to doubt that they can be anything. Research shows that when girls play sports, they report higher levels of confidence, which in turn breaks down barriers to girl’s self-belief.

Dina said: “I’m so proud to have my own one-of-a-kind Dina Barbie doll. It’s an honour to work with Barbie as a ‘Shero’ and work together to inspire future champions. Growing up, sportswomen were less visible in the media and there is still a gap when it comes to women’s sports, which is why representation is so important. For Barbie to champion female athletes and different sports shows future generations that anything is possible. I hope little girls will see my doll and be inspired to take up and continue to enjoy sports. There are so many amazing things have happened because of my love for running, but having my own Barbie is definitely up there.”

Heather Smith, associate head of innovation at Women in Sport added: “At Women in Sport, we’re determined to help more girls enjoy these lifelong rewards of sport. We’re excited to be supporting’s Barbie’s Dream Gap sporting role models programme, which platforms these positive and aspirational role models for girls and shows them they can do and be anything.”

Lisa McKnight, SVP Barbie & Global head of dolls added: “As sportswomen continue to set new records and take centre stage around the world, we are proud to honour these amazing women by amplifying their stories and achievements with dolls in their likeness. In an effort to close the Dream Gap, we have a responsibility to show girls they can be anything on and off the field, court, mat and beyond.”

Barbie has honoured Sheroes since 2015, honouring 50 women in total.

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