Mattel Kicks Off Barbie's 125th Career with Global Campaign

In celebration of Barbie's 125th career, Mattel is launching an array of profession-focused dolls with Web capabilities and has kicked off a campaign for fans to vote for Barbie's newest profession. The toy company has also partnered with a number of organizations to inspire girls worldwide.

A line of 2010 I Can Be product is rolling out at retailers now and includes the latest Barbie career additions such as a rock star, pet vet, newborn baby doctor, dentist, race car driver, babysitter, snowboarder, ballroom dancer, preschool teacher, ballerina and pizza chef. Each doll comes with a unique code to unlock online games specific to the particular career theme.

"For more than 50 years, Barbie has served as a reflection of fashion, culture and aspiration to girls of all ages," says Stephanie Cota, senior vice president of marketing for Barbie. "Barbie inspires girls to try on different careers, encouraging them to play out their dreams and explore the world and all of its possibilities. We believe role-playing with Barbie leads to real-life opportunities and are very proud to partner with organizations who continue to inspire girls and women with the belief and confidence that they can do anything."

Meanwhile, fans are encouraged to vote for Barbie's 125^th career at www.barbie.com/vote, choosing from an architect, computer engineer, environmentalist, news anchor or surgeon. The winning profession will be announced Feb. 12 at New York Toy Fair.

In addition, the Barbie I Can Be campaign has teamed up with The White House Project, Take Our Daughters to Work Foundation and 10 Women to Watch in 2010. Localized Barbie I Can Be events will take place in Canada, Latin America, Germany and the U.K.