Barbie Doll With Down Syndrome Launches In South Africa
Barbie Doll With Down Syndrome Launches In South Africa. The newest addition to Mattel’s range of inspirational dolls is a Barbie doll with Down syndrome, created to allow even more children to see themselves in Barbie, as well as have Barbie reflect the world around them. Now available in South Africa, ahead of National Down Syndrome Day on the 20th of October, The Barbie doll with Down syndrome is meant to inspire all children to tell more stories through play.
“As the most diverse doll line on the market, Barbie plays an important role in a child’s early experiences, and we are dedicated to doing our part to counter social stigma through play,” said Lisa McKnight, Executive Vice President and Global Head of Barbie & Dolls, Mattel. “Doll play outside of a child’s own lived experience can teach understanding and build a greater sense of empathy, leading to a more accepting world. We are proud to introduce a Barbie doll with Down syndrome to better reflect the world around us and further our commitment to celebrating inclusion through play.”
To ensure the doll accurately represents a person with Down syndrome, Barbie worked closely with the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS). NDSS empowers individuals with Down syndrome and their families by providing resources, driving policy change, engaging with local communities. NDSS’s guidance and real-world experiences informed the design process from start to finish, including the dolls sculpt, clothing, accessories, and packaging. The close partnership ensured the Barbie team celebrated individuals with Down syndrome through a doll that would immediately connect with the community.
“The launch of new Barbie Doll with Down syndrome in South Africa is a powerful symbol of inclusivity and representation”, says Ancella Ramjas, National Executive Director at Down Syndrome South Africa (DSSA). As an organisation working with persons with Down Syndrome and their families, this presents a unique opportunity to work with Barbie SA to educate, empower and promote acceptance towards a more inclusive world, where everyone’s uniqueness is celebrated.”
“’Empowering Dreams, Embracing Diversity’ is the theme that we will be working with our upcoming National Awareness Month in October, and I also think it aligns with the message that we as an organisation see with regards to the impact of the new Barbie Doll. Together let’s break down barriers one doll at a time by Empowering Dreams and Embracing Diversity,” concludes Ancella Ramjas.
