New Zealand rugby icon Portia Woodman-Wickliffe has just ticked off the ultimate girlhood dream - she’s officially a Barbie.
To celebrate International Day of the Girl, toy maker Mattel has revealed Team Barbie - a lineup of four rugby powerhouses from around the world, all picked to inspire young girls to live with confidence both on and off the field.
Joining Portia in the dream team are Ilona Maher (USA), Ellie Kildunne (England), and Nassira Konde (France).
Mattel recognises Portia as a “two-time Olympic and World Champion, known for redefining the game with record-breaking performances.” That's our wahine toa!
Portia took to Instagram to share her excitement, writing: “What a dream to be a Barbie. All for our Māori babies everywhere.”
The doll, captures Portia head to toe, including her ta moko on her leg, representing herself, her family and community.
Fans were quick to flood Barbie's Instagram announcement with aroha and excitement around featuring one of our Women's rugby greats!
One person wrote: “Team Barbie is showing girls they can be anything, and can play rugby like these all-stars! 🙌🏽🤩💕.”
“Our kind of role model 🥹💖,” Adidas Rugby added.
Our Black Ferns asked: “Where, when and how can we get one of these @barbie?!
Sadly, for now, Portia’s doll is a one-of-a-kind (we know, tragic). The only one heading to shelves is Ilona Maher - featuring a brand-new, muscular body design to reflect her unreal athleticism.
But, we’re a convincing lot, so you know us Kiwi wāhine will be pushing for a release of Portia dolls to hit stores... go on Mattel, you know you want to!
"At Barbie, we believe that girls can be, and do, anything,” said Krista Berger, Senior Vice President of Barbie.
“We’re committed to breaking down the barriers – from gender stereotypes to self-doubt – that hold girls back from realising their limitless potential."
As part of the campaign, Mattel’s also donating to girls’ sports organisations across NZ, the UK, France, and the US - so our tamariki caan chase their dreams with confidence.
Now that's a great reason to scream 'Yeah the girls!!!'
