AI influencers are taking over Instagram but there’s a new lady joining in: Barbie. No, she isn’t just a doll for kids to play with or a character seen in animated films. She is also now a vlogger on YouTube. Under the Barbie account, you will see familiar content like house tours, what’s in my bag videos, and challenges. But what sets her apart is that she tackles some social issues and posts videos that have positive messages for young girls.
Her most recent video talked about the sorry reflex, something I’m personally guilty of doing. She starts by saying, “I think there’s a bigger issue around sorry, especially with girls. We say it a lot. Like it’s a reflex and that somehow everything that goes wrong is our fault.” Preach! She also gave some examples. “Somebody bumps into us and we say, ‘sorry.’” She also stressed how saying sorry has become a learned reflex and she challenges viewers to approach these situations with a different mindset. I mean, where was this video when I was a kid.
As part of Barbie’s Shero campaign, she also posted vlogs talking about some powerful women like Amelia Earhart and Frida Kahlo. Aside from just giving a brief background about the women, she also has special messages for each like being your own muse like Frida Kahlo. These are sure to show girls that their gender shouldn’t stop them from thinking big about their future. They shouldn’t be afraid to succeed in something they’re good at.
Barbie’s videos also show how we should support other girls too. She has guests over and they show off their talents and skills like cooking and crafts. She also did a sister tag video where you’ll see the close bond that they have.
With the younger generations getting into social media and technology at such an early age, Barbie can teach them to take a break and relax. In one video, she shows viewers about her meditation routine. “The key to meditation is practice. You’re not meant to be great at it. It’s just a time to slow down.” I might just take her advice.
With everything happening in the world right now, it’s nice to see that there are good sources of influence for your girls. Here, they’ll get to learn things I wasn’t able to at their age. Key lessons that will help build their confidence and teach them how to slow down and enjoy the present.
Art by Marian Hukom
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