Barbie is proud to honor 6 frontline workers from around the world with #OneOfAKind dolls in their likeness. From an ER nurse to a biomedical researcher and more, these heroes continue to serve their communities, and inspire generations to follow their lead. #ThankYouHeroes pic.twitter.com/x6pdOlJNDZ
— Barbie (@Barbie) August 4, 2021
Mattel has added six new dolls to the Barbie world. Although Barbie has been a part of the medical profession since 1961 when the first nurse Barbie came out, these particular figures stand out in their lineup. In addition to several medical positions that have yet to be represented by the brand, each doll is modeled after actual front-line workers in the fight against COVID. This is Mattel’s way of honoring those who have put so much on the line during the pandemic. Not only are several countries represented, but so are several fields, acknowledging how many have worked together to fight this.
British vaccinologist Sarah Gilbert now has a new accolade: It’s a one-of-a-kind Barbie doll made in her image.
The Oxford University professor helped lead the development of the Oxford/AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine. Last month, she was given a damehood, and now, she shares her hairstyle, professional wardrobe and dark-rimmed glasses with Mattel Inc’s new doll.
Gilbert told The Guardian she first found Mattel’s recognition “very strange” but hopes it inspires other young women around the world to work in science, technology, engineering and mathematics careers (STEM).
“I am passionate about inspiring the next generation of girls into STEM careers and hope that children who see my Barbie will realize how vital careers in science are to help the world around us,” she said. “My wish is that my doll will show children careers they may not be aware of, like a vaccinologist.”
Gilbert is one of the six women Mattel Inc has recognized as role models in the fight against COVID-19. According to the toymaker, the five other honorees are U.S. health care workers Dr. Audrey Sue Cruz and emergency room nurse Amy O’Sullivan, Canadian doctor and advocate against systemic racism in health care Chicka Stacy Oriuwa, Brazilian biomedical researcher Dr. Jaqueline Goes de Jesus and Australian doctor and protective gown developer Kirby White.
“Barbie recognizes that all frontline workers have made tremendous sacrifices when confronting the pandemic and the challenges it heightened,” said Lisa McKnight, senior vice president and global head of Barbie and Dolls at Mattel. “To shine a light on their efforts, we are sharing their stories.”
I think this is amazing. I love that it recognizes so many countries and contributions. I love that they are all women. And I love the statement each doll makes whether it is showcased on a shelf or played with by a child for inspiration. I also like the look of each figure. They did a good job to capture these women in a way that I feel like I understand a little bit about who they are. I get that it might be a bit overwhelming to have your likeness out there for a generation of children to play with. I like Prof. Dame Gilbert’s* take on her plastic mini-me, that it’s a way to show kids how many specialties are out there that are usually not discussed.
So, who are these women being portrayed? Dr. Audrey Sue Cruz is a Las Vegas physician who worked the front line in both hospital and clinical settings. She also collaborated with other Asian-American physicians to fight racial bias and created the hastag #IAmNotAVirus. Dr. Jaqueline Goes de Jesus first identified the genome sequencing of Brazil’s variant. Dr. Kirby White developed a reusable surgical gown that could be laundered after her hospital’s supply of disposable gowns ran out. Prof. Sarah Gilbert is the vaccinologist discussed above. Dr. Chika Stacy Oriuwa is a front-line physician and spoken word poet who advocates against systemic racism in health care. Amy O’Sullivan is the nurse who became ill with COVID and almost died from it after treating the first case in Brooklyn. All of these women are amazing and very deserving of their Barbie honor.
*I recognize this is not the proper order for her titles. This is me being a cheeky American for some levity, please forgive me.
? @Mattel‘s #ThankYouHeroes program continues with new @Barbie promotions, and more —> #pulseofplay https://t.co/Z6lLqbRggB
— The Toy Book (@ToyBook) August 4, 2021
Photo credit: Twitter and Instagram
