The local launch of the My Barbie Story project in Sandton, Johannesburg, has brought forth heartfelt accounts from icons in South Africa’s creative scene, such as Gert-Johan Coetzee, Kim Jayde, Jenna Clifford, and Kovini Moodley. Each shared their personal connection with Barbie, reflecting on how the iconic doll inspired their dreams, creativity, and ambition.

Gert-Johan Coetzee: From Barbie Dolls to Global Fashion Renowned fashion designer Gert-Johan Coetzee recounted how his journey began with Barbie dolls on his family farm. Diagnosed with dyslexia, Coetzee found his voice in fashion and design, a passion that his sister’s Barbie dolls helped spark. These dolls became his first “fashion models,” unknowingly shaping his future path. “It gave a young boy on the farm, not really fitting in anywhere, a glimpse into what I now know was my future, and that was so beautiful and powerful for me,” Coetzee reflected. Today, he designs for some of the world’s top personalities, proving that early inspirations can evolve into grand careers.

Kim Jayde: Representing African Women and Embracing Boldness Zimbabwean-born media personality and entrepreneur Kim Jayde spoke about the honor of being included in My Barbie Story, emphasizing her role as a representative for African women. For Jayde, Barbie symbolized empowerment and endless possibilities from a young age, a theme that has deeply influenced her career. “Representation matters,” she shared. “To be chosen to represent my family, Zimbabwe, South Africa, and African women means the world. Anything is possible.” Her journey mirrors Barbie’s values of breaking boundaries, embracing one’s roots, and inspiring others to do the same.

Jenna Clifford and Kovini Moodley: Crafting Their Own Legacies Jewelry designer Jenna Clifford and change activist Kovini Moodley also contributed their reflections, highlighting how Barbie’s legacy of reinvention resonated with their personal and professional lives. For Clifford, Barbie inspired her imagination and creativity, while Moodley, known for her social advocacy, found empowerment in Barbie’s representation of boldness and courage. Moodley said, “Being featured in this book reflects how Barbie has encouraged countless individuals, including myself, to pursue their dreams without fear.”

Honoring Barbie’s Legacy of Inspiration and Empowerment For over 65 years, Barbie has inspired and empowered children worldwide, providing a symbol of limitless possibilities and imagination. The My Barbie Story project invited creators from around the world to celebrate this legacy, recognizing Barbie’s influence on their lives and careers. Through childhood memories and pivotal moments of self-discovery, these icons’ stories reflect how deeply Barbie has touched lives, encouraging each person to dream bigger and chase their ambitions.

This celebration of Barbie as a muse is a testament to how toys can leave lasting impressions, shaping futures and inspiring icons in diverse fields. My Barbie Story is not only a tribute to Barbie but a reminder that even simple childhood moments can lay the foundation for great achievements.

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