Mattel launched its first ever Hijab Barbie inspired by American-Muslim Olympic Fencer, Ibtihaj Muhammad. She’s the first American athlete to compete in the Olympics wearing the religious headscarf and thus making history. The Hijab Barbie was launched at Women Of The Year Summit 2017 presented by Glamour Magazine in New York. The doll entered as a part of Barbie Shero family that accolades women around the globe who have broken stereotypes and emerged strong role models.
Thank you Mattel for announcing me as the newest member of the Barbie Shero family! The Barbie Shero Program recognizes women who break boundaries to inspire the next generation of girls and I am so excited to join this incredible group of women. I’m proud to know that little girls everywhere can now play with a Barbie who chooses to wear hijab! This is a childhood dream come true.
The athlete helped the creation of this doll as she worked with designers at Mattel with the styling of the doll. The Barbie comes in an all white fencing outfit with saber-fencing sword and helmet. The body of the barbie has an athletic built unlike the traditional petite body type and only shows hands and face keeping rest of the body covered.
Last year Barbie’s Sheros family had plus-size model Ashley Graham‘s doll doppelganger for her body positivity and confidence.
Keep inspiring all the girls’ worldwide Mattel!
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