New dolls that empower kids

Wendy Tsao, a Vancouver-based artist, has given the overly-sexualised Bratz dolls a much needed make ‘under’. Calling it the Mighty Doll project, the artist has taken away the dolls’ heavy makeup, sexy boots and fashion-forward attire and given them a more realistic appearance. She’s also modelled them after women who make stellar role models for young girls—Malala Yousafzai, Jane Goodall and JK Rowling.

Wendy believed Barbie and Bratz dolls gave girls a negative message regarding their body image, and wanted to create dolls that would offer positive messages instead. Since the dolls are created to look like the child versions of the real-life role models, they help girls identify with these women better. The ultimate aim is to show the girls the spectrum of positive possibilities for when they grow up. In fact, these are incredible role models for any woman to have.

Malala Yousafzai - Unfortunately, as comedienne Amy Schumer (another good role model for girls to have) pointed out during an interview, young girls don’t keep posters of Malala on their walls. Although Malala is the youngest winner of the Nobel Peace Prize and has done what many of us may never have the gall to—stand for our principles and our basic right to education—not many young girls are aware of her incredible stance and work. They are, however, aware of Barbie, the Kardashians and other cult pop figures.

Jane Goodall - This scientist did groundbreaking work in the field of primatology and anthropology, amongst other specialities. Her 55-year study of the social interactions of the chimpanzee is what she is most known for. Unfortunately, most young girls have no clue who Jane Goodall is, and if they do, the knowledge remains within the confines of a chapter in their science textbooks.

JK Rowling – Known for her Harry Potter series, the author is a wonderful symbol of perseverance and hard work. She’s spoken out many times about her initial struggles as an unpublished writer and her fear of public speaking.

There are also dolls modeled on Roberta Bondar, first female Canadian astronaut and Waris Dirie, model, author, social activist. Wendy plans to make more such dolls so that parents don't run out of options and kids always find someone new to take an inspiration from.

We would lvoe to see Arundhati Roy and Hillary Clinton too make it to the list of these Mighty dolls. Who would you like your kids to look up to? Comment and let us know.