Barbie Honors Olympic Figure Skater, Kristi Yamaguchi, with Inspiring Women Doll

New doll added to Inspiring Women line.

License Global, Content Editor

April 29, 2024

2 Min Read
Kristi Yamaguchi Barbie doll.
Kristi Yamaguchi Barbie doll.Mattel

In celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) Heritage Month in May, Barbie is honoring U.S. figure skating champion and Olympic gold medalist, Kristi Yamaguchi, with an Inspiring Women doll.     

As the first Asian American woman to win an Olympic gold medal in figure skating, a best-selling author and children’s literacy advocate, Yamaguchi is a trailblazer on and off the ice. She is a source of inspiration for young girls around the globe to pursue their passions.      

“Barbie is proud to honor Kristi Yamaguchi as the latest addition to our Inspiring Women series,” says Krista Berger, senior vice president, Barbie and global head, dolls, Mattel

 “As the first Asian American to win a gold medal in the Olympics, she has broken down barriers for women and Asian Americans in the sports industry, inspiring young girls to, as Kristi Yamaguchi says, ‘Dream big and accomplish big things.’ Her determination, advocacy and commitment to educating and empowering the next generation perfectly embodies the mission of the Barbie brand and we couldn’t be more thrilled to amplify her inspirational story for a new generation of kids.” 

Not only did Barbie work closely with Yamaguchi to sculpt a doll in proper reflection of her likeness but as part of the launch and continued support of the AAPI community, Barbie is also making a donation to Kristi Yamaguchi’s Always Dream and Aspire (Asian Sister Participating in Reaching Excellence), an organization committed to building and empowering a community of Asian American women leaders through identity development, mentorship and education.  

Related:Mattel and Heinz Team Up for Barbiecue Sauce

“My life’s work – whether on the ice or off through my advocacy at Always Dream – has been driven by my personal mission to inspire new generations of athletes, students and activists,” says Yamaguchi. “Collaborating with Mattel to create my Inspiring Women Barbie doll is a natural extension of our shared purpose, and I hope it serves as a constant reminder for young kids everywhere to follow their dreams.” 

The Kristi Yamaguchi doll is available on the Mattel Shop, Amazon, Walmart and Target. 

Read more about:

MattelBarbieGlobal

About the Author

License Global

Content Editor, License Global

License Global is the leading news source for the brand licensing industry, delivering award-winning editorial content including news, trends, analysis, and special reports about the global consumer product and retail marketplace.

Through its print edition, website, daily e-newsletter and event publications, License Global reaches more than 150,000 executives and professionals in all major markets. The magazine also serves as the official publication for the sector’s trade events, which include Licensing Expo, Brand Licensing Europe, France Licensing Day, Licensing for Retail, Licensing Expo Japan, Licensing Expo Shanghai and the Licensing Leadership Summit.

Subscribe for updates directly into your inbox.

 

 

 

Subscribe and receive the latest news from the industry Article
Join 62,000+ members. Yes, it's completely free.

You May Also Like