Gert-Johan Coetzee, Kovini Moodley, Jenna Clifford and SADC neighbour Kim Jayde, have all been honoured in the ‘My Barbie Story’ book which was released late last week.
Johannesburg, South Africa (28 October 2024) – South African designers Gert-Johan Coetzee and Jenna Clifford, changemaker Kovini Moodley and Zimbabwean influencer Kim Jayde, who calls South Africa her home away from home, were selected to feature amongst hundreds of people from around the world. Some of these big names include Dame Helen Mirren, Claudia Schiffer, the world’s leading ability activists and several Olympians!
The book has been released in celebration of Barbie‘s 65th Anniversary, and Mattel will be donating 100% of its proceeds from the sale of this book with an additional donation from the Mattel Children’s Foundation to registered charity UN Women UK as part of the Barbie Dream Gap Project’s initiative to level the playing field for girls.
“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” – Tabitha Morton, Executive Director UN Women UK
‘My Barbie Story’ features heartfelt narratives from inspiring friends of the brand, about what Barbie has meant to them over the years. This is a unique collection of 108 stories and pictures from well-known names, fans and collectors.
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.
The book is broken down into Role Models, Arts & Culture, Fashion & Design, Barbie Fans, Leaders & Changemakers and the Barbie Team.
Gert-Johan Coetzee has a close relationship with Barbie, which started long before he was a world-famous designer. Having had the chance to create his own Barbie collection, the dream that started when he was young, has come full circle and being honoured in the book, is just another spectacular part of that dream come true.
“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.” – An extract from Gert-Johan Coetzee’s story in the book
Everyone is encouraged to share their Barbie story, so let us your story in the comment section. The limited edition book can be found on Amazon.