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Barbie® Celebrates International Women’s Day by Encouraging More Girls to See Themselves in STEM
5 Mins Read

Barbie® Celebrates International Women’s Day by Encouraging More Girls to See Themselves in STEM

Mattel, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAT) announced today that Barbie is celebrating International Women’s Day by honouring over half a dozen women worldwide who are leaders in STEM with one-of-a-kind role model dolls made in their likeness. Barbie knows that seeing is believing – and access to successful female role models in STEM is essential for children to build and maintain an interest in the industry.

Women make up less than one-third of the STEM workforce,* and it’s proven that girls are systemically tracked away from STEM throughout their education.** To show girls that they can be anything, Barbie is proud to continue its commitment to recognizing female role models and highlighting careers which are historically underrepresented by women.  

“Barbie is dedicated to showcasing women who are role models from all backgrounds, professions, and nationalities so that girls around the world can see themselves in careers that might not always seem as accessible,” said Lisa McKnight, Executive Vice President and Global Head of Barbie & Dolls, Mattel. “STEM is a field where women are severely underrepresented, and our hope is that honouring these seven leaders in science and technology will encourage girls to follow their passion in this field. This International Women’s Day, we’re proud to continue our work in closing the Dream Gap and reminding girls of their limitless potential.”

The Barbie brand’s lineup of global female role models includes three exceptional sisters from the United States – Susan, Anne, and Janet Wojcicki – who can serve as inspiration in a variety of STEM fields for the next generation of women leaders. The full global lineup being honoured with one-of-a-kind Barbie dolls made in their likeness includes:

  • Susan Wojcicki (United States): Longtime YouTube CEO
  • Anne Wojcicki (United States): Co-Founder and CEO of 23andME
  • Janet Wojcicki (United States):  Professor of Pediatrics and Epidemiology at the University of California, San Francisco
  • Katya Echazarreta (Mexico): Electrical Engineer and Science Show Host
  • Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock (United Kingdom): Space Scientist and Science Educator
  • Prof Dr Antje Boetius (DE): Marine Researcher and Microbiologist
  • Yinuo Li (China): Co-Founder of ETU Education

“It feels surreal that my family’s stories might interest and impact the lives of girls worldwide. My sisters were some of my strongest role models growing up and we all built careers based on our interest in STEM. Our parents fostered independence and a belief that we could truly be anything we wanted to be when I grew up, but most important was to pursue a passion,” said Anne Wojcicki, Co-Founder and CEO of 23andME. “I’m honoured to celebrate International Women’s Day this year with Barbie alongside my family and these other powerful women in STEM leadership roles. I hope that sharing our stories encourages young girls to try something new, face something that may scare them, and look at challenges as exciting opportunities.”

“I understand first-hand that role models are essential for young girls to see what’s possible. When I was starting my career, I struggled to find inspiring stories of other women excelling in STEM – and especially in epidemiology,” said Janet Wojcicki, Professor of Paediatrics and Epidemiology, UCSF. “I have been impressed with the increasing global relevance of Barbies for girls from all communities and seen first-hand through my work the relevance of Barbie for sub-Saharan African and Latinx girls. I’m honoured to serve as a Barbie role model this year and help children worldwide see women in places that they might want to be in one day.”

“Growing up, I didn’t imagine that I would have a career in tech,” said Susan Wojcicki, Longtime YouTube CEO. “My sisters and I found jobs we love and discovered how creative and fulfilling careers in STEM can be for women. I spent nearly 25 years working at Google and nine years as the CEO of YouTube, and it was an incredible experience. I hope Barbie’s International Women’s Day celebration will remind girls around the world that they can do anything.”

Barbie worked with Susan Wojcicki on a YouTube-produced custom “Short” content. In the video, Susan answers questions on empowerment and shares the lessons she’s learned along the way to becoming a top tech CEO.

In addition, Barbie will pay tribute to all these global role models through a special episode of the Barbie You Can Be Anything Series – an inspiring digital series featuring conversations with female role models – with Anne Wojcicki as she shares the fun of science, genetics, and DNA with kids from the Boys and Girls Club.

In further commitment to leveling the playing field for girls globally, Barbie established the Barbie Dream Gap Project in 2018, a multi-year global initiative created to raise awareness around limiting factors that prevent girls from reaching their full potential. Since launching, the brand has committed over 1.5 million dollars through the Barbie Dream Gap Project to nonprofit partners on a mission to achieve equality by fueling education, leadership skills and mentorship opportunities for girls.

* According to the United States Census Bureau
** According to the American Association of University Women

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How Changing My Mindset About My Dad Helped Me Heal
3 Mins Read

How Changing My Mindset About My Dad Helped Me Heal

For a long time, I felt unwanted and like a disappointment to my dad because I was not a boy. Growing up, I was always excited for my birthday, but he would always forget about it, despite it being just 11 days after his own. I never felt acknowledged as someone important. But the biggest blow came when I found out that he had betrayed my mom and was seeing a low-class woman he wanted to replace her with before she died. And to add insult to injury, I found out that he had cheated on my mom while she was in the hospital dying, with me sitting next to her bed and my less than 6-month-old baby left in the care of my husband 400km away.

For a long time, I carried around a lot of anger and resentment towards my dad. I felt like he had let me down in every possible way and had failed as a father. But as time went on, I realized that this mindset was only hurting me. Holding onto these negative emotions was not serving me in any way, and it was time to let them go.

The turning point for me came when I stopped calling him “Dad” in my mind, and then eventually stopped calling him “Dad” in WhatsApp messages. It was a small but significant step towards changing my mindset. By no longer referring to him as “Dad,” I was taking away the power that this title held over me. I was no longer defining my relationship with him based on what I thought a “Dad” should be, but rather on who he was as a person.

I vividly remember him asking me why I don’t call him “Dad” anymore. At that moment, I felt nothing. It was as if I had detached myself from the emotional weight that this word had carried for so long.

Rather than viewing my father solely as my DAD, I came to see him as a flawed individual who had concealed his authentic self from everyone, even himself. He was someone who had never experienced being alone and perhaps rushed into a relationship with my mother shortly after his previous engagement ended.

Changing my mindset about my dad has helped me to let go of the pain and hurt that I once carried with me – for the most part. I may never fully understand why he made the choices that he did, but I have come to accept that they were his choices to make.

In the end, changing my mindset about my dad has not only helped me to heal but has also given me a new perspective on life. It has taught me that sometimes we need to let go of our preconceived notions and definitions of people in order to truly see them for who they are. And that by doing so, we can find the peace and healing that we need to move forward.

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Disney Junior to Premiere "Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures"
3 Mins Read

DISNEY+ AND DISNEY JUNIOR ANNOUNCE RELEASE DATE,  

ADDITIONAL KEY CAST,  AND NEW IMAGES FOR “STAR WARS: YOUNG JEDI ADVENTURES” 

“Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures” Premieres on Disney+ and Disney Junior on May 4

Disney+, Disney Junior, and Lucasfilm has announced that “Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures” will premiere on Disney+ and Disney Junior (DStv channel 309) on May 4, 2023. Set during The High Republic era, the animated series follows Jedi younglings as they study the ways of the Force, explore the galaxy, help citizens and creatures in need, and learn valuable skills needed to become Jedi along the way.  

Disney+ and Lucasfilm also released two stills from the series, which include Master Yoda, Jedi younglings Kai, Lys, and Nubs, and their friends Nash and RJ-83 on planet Tenoo. The second image shows Lys, Kai, and Nubs during a training sequence. 

Produced by Lucasfilm for Disney+ and Disney Junior, “Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures” is executive produced by Lucasfilm’s James Waugh, Jacqui Lopez, and Josh Rimes. Michael Olson (“Puppy Dog Pals”) is showrunner and executive producer; Elliot M. Bour (“Elena of Avalor”) is supervising director and co-producer; Jeannine Hodson (“Puppy Dog Pals”) is producer; and Lamont Magee (“Black Lightning”) is consulting producer. 

“‘Star Wars’transcends generations; fans of all ages deeply connect with its imaginative worlds, mythic stories, and unique characters,” says James Waugh, “Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures” executive producer and Senior Vice President Franchise Content & Strategy at Lucasfilm. “When developing ‘Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures,’the first‘Star Wars’ series created for preschoolers, the creative team never stopped thinking about how this show may be a ‘youngling’s’ first step into a larger world and their first time experiencing the limitless potential of the ‘Star Wars’galaxy. The show’s characters, tone, and the life lessons woven throughout each episode were written just for them, and our talented team was committed to honoring the cinematic legacy while staying true to the expectations of parents for the youngest of audiences.” 

Alyssa Sapire, Senior Vice President, Development, Series, Strategy, Disney Junior: “Our collaboration with Lucasfilm on this series is an amazing opportunity to introduce this universally cherished franchise to a younger generation. As an early entry point into ‘Star Wars,’ we have created a series with exciting new and familiar characters and storylines that highlight the values of compassion, teamwork, and friendship, which are important elements for all of our Disney Junior programming.”

“Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures” stars Jamaal Avery, Jr. as Kai Brightstar, Juliet Donenfeld as Lys Solay, Dee Bradley Baker as Nubs, Emma Berman as Nash Durango, Jonathan Lipow as RJ-83, and Piotr Michael as Master Yoda. 

“Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures” will debut on Disney+ and Disney Junior on May 4, 2023. 

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2 Mins Read

Benefits of Card & Number-play for Kids

Playing card games is a timeless pastime enjoyed by all ages. From improving cognitive and motor skills in children to providing therapeutic benefits for adults, the benefits of card games are numerous. Card games have been around for centuries, with the earliest reference dating back to 10th century China. Though once regarded as luxury items only available to the rich, card production costs have significantly reduced, making them a popular choice for traditional games.

In addition to being entertaining and relaxing, card games offer hidden learning opportunities. Playing with cards can help children develop their motor skills, including dexterity and eye-hand coordination. Cognitive skills are also enhanced by playing card games, from memorization to matching numbers, pattern recognition, and the promotion of complex mathematical concepts. Card games can even foster emotional intelligence, allowing children to take part in friendly competition, while practicing patience, fair play, and communication skills.

The colours and numbers on cards also offer educational benefits, such as improving a child’s numerical identification and comparison skills. Therapists working with children during play therapy often use card games to build a therapeutic relationship, facilitate emotional growth, and even teach new skills. Card games can also be used during online therapy sessions, making them an excellent alternative to electronic games and a healthy way to limit screen time. So why not grab a deck of cards and enjoy the social, emotional, and cognitive benefits they offer?

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1 Min Read

Mattel Leads The Way with Eco-Friendly Toys

Fisher-Price Eco Rock-A-Stack turns Learning & Development into an Eco-Friendly Play Time.

Every year, approximately 26.8 million toys are discarded, causing a growing negative impact on the environment. Since many of these toys are constructed from plastic, which is generally believed to be durable, robust, and washable, Mattel is endeavoring to change this trend by creating eco-friendly products, such as the Eco Rock-A-Stack.

Locating goods that are designed with sustainability in mind can be challenging. However, selecting environmentally friendly options can now commence before a child is born, benefiting both eco-conscious consumers and parents seeking safe toys that encourage learning and development.

The classic Fisher-Price Rock-a-Stack is recognized for its bat-at-rocker foundation and five vibrant rings that can be grasped and piled. This adorable present package is brimming with hands-on play that fosters dexterity, hand-eye coordination, and problem-solving abilities for infants aged six months and up.
Now, made from sugar cane, with at least 90% of the ethanol extracted, this popular toy is reducing your carbon footprint and plastic waste impact on the environment. Additionally, as a grasping, stacking, and sorting toy, it helps to cultivate fine motor skills and problem-solving abilities for infants aged six months and above.

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Barbie Colour Reveal
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Lexa & Lily | Barbie Color Reveal Mermaid

Join Lexa and Lily as they open and explore the exciting Barbie Color Reveal (little) Mermaid dolls! These dolls come with a unique surprise element – their color is hidden, and the girls get to discover it as they unbox each toy. Along with the doll’s color, the girls will also reveal the beautiful and unique mermaid tail. If you’re a fan of Barbie dolls and all things related to mermaids, you won’t want to miss out on the fun and excitement of this unboxing video. So sit back, watch in anticipation, and hit the like and subscribe button to keep up with more exciting toy videos from Lexa and Lily!

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Limpopo Attractions
3 Mins Read

Why you should take a roadtrip to Limpopo

The Limpopo province is one of the most diverse and exciting destinations in South Africa. From wildlife to nature and culture, there is something for everyone.

About Limpopo

Limpopo is the northernmost province of the country, and its capital city is Polokwane. The name “Limpopo” has its etymological roots in the Nguni language, meaning “strong gushing waterfalls”.

The province covers an area of 125,755 square kilometers and has a population of approximately 5.6 million people. Limpopo is bounded by Botswana to the west, Zimbabwe to the north, and Mozambique to the east. The Vaal River forms the province’s southern boundary.

Why should you take a roadtrip to Limpopo?

Limpopo is one of the most beautiful and diverse provinces in South Africa (and I’m a little biased because it is my home province). From the majestic Drakensberg Mountains to the wildlife-rich Kruger National Park, there is something for everyone in Limpopo.

Here are five reasons why you should take a road trip to this incredible province:

1. The scenery is breath-taking

The Drakensberg Mountains provide a backdrop for the rolling hills and lush vegetation, while the Kruger National Park is home to an abundance of wildlife. There are also numerous game reserves and national parks where you can see rhinos, elephants, lions and other African wildlife up close.

  • Marakele National Park
  • Mabalingwe Nature Reserve
  • Welgevonden Nature Reserve
  • Kruger National Park
  • Mopholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre
  • Mapungubwe National Park
  • Sondela Rehab Centre
  • Modjadji Cycad Reserve

2. There is plenty to do

Whether you want to go on safari, hike in the mountains, or simply relax by the pool, there is plenty to keep you busy in Limpopo. There are also numerous cultural activities and attractions, such as museums, art galleries and traditional villages where you can learn about the local culture and history.

  • Mukondeni Pottery Village
  • Bakone Malapa Open-Air Museum
  • Debegeni Waterfall
  • Echo Caves
  • Magoebaskloof Hinking Trails
  • Big Baobab (Gravelotte)
  • Arend Dieperink Museum

… and if you want to hike:

  • Louis Changuion Hiking Trail
  • Lesodi Hiking Trail
  • Blyde River via Dientjies Falls
  • Magoebaskloof Hiking Trail
  • Lephalale Mountain Trail

3. The food is delicious

Limpopo is home to some interesting traditional delicacies…

  • Mopani worms – dried, roasted or in a dish
  • Magege or roasted termites – dried, roasted or in a dish
  • Chicken feet & heads (walkie-talkies) with samp and beans
  • Thihove – samp and fresh peanuts ‘frikkadels’
  • Tsophi – round balls of butternut and pap
  • Umqombothi – home-brewed beer

PS. I won’t be joining you for mopani worms anytime soon!

You might want to add these to your trip:

  • Zwakala Brewery
  • Qualito Craft Distillery
  • Geluksfontein Goat Cheese Farm
  • Wegraakbosch Organic Farm
  • Kuhestan Organic Farm

4. Adventure by car or through the air

Whether you want to swing between trees, hike in the mountains or try your hand at a 4×4 adventure.

  • Letaba 4×4 Eco-Trail
  • Luvuvhu 4×4 Eco-Trail
  • Makuya 4×4 Self-Drive Trail
  • Great Limpopo Wilderness Trail

… and if you want to zipline:

  • Magoebaskloof Canopy Tours
  • Waterberg Zipline Adventures

There are so many reasons to take a roadtrip to Limpopo and I haven’t even scratched the surface in this post! So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!

The SANI brand was established in 1997. SANI Car Rental is a South African homegrown car rental company. Vehicles available to rent include compact cars, economy cars, premium cars, people carriers and SUVs. SANI Car Rental serves customers throughout South Africa including at all major local and international airports. Visit SANI Car Rental at Polokwane International Airport.

#sponsored

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Dear Diary
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2023 Diary: Day 1

Our day of 2023 started with a hike!

The little one is a trooper who just marches up and down hills like she’s done it all her life whilst the oldest needs ‘some’ encouragement.

We walked 1.2km and the kids had to carry their own water and snacks.

2020 to 2022 was not a (few) good year (s) for my weight – and yes I am lumping them all together, because quite frankly, they sucked. I managed to gain 20kgs. I do not fit into any of my beloved jeans and have a double chin. I hate it enough to start getting back to myself this year.

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