Barbie inspires girls to pursue STEM careers with launch to space

The iconic doll traversed the stratosphere in partnership with STEM Camp

LONDON, ON, July 8, 2019 /CNW/ - This year marks Barbie's 60^th anniversary, and with over 200 careers and counting, there isn't a plastic ceiling she hasn't broken. On Friday, July 5, in London, Ontario, a Barbie Astronaut Doll surpassed those ceilings to reach new heights.

Held in partnership with Canadian not-for-profit STEM Camp, campers experienced space-related programming and counted down Barbie's launch to space on a high-altitude weather balloon. Her three-hour journey to space and back was captured on live action camera.

Video: On July 5th, a Barbie Astronaut Doll launched to space to reach new heights #Barbie60 #YouCanBeAnything

A Barbie Astronaut Doll reached new heights as she was launched to space on Friday, July 5, 2019 in London, Ontario. The launch was held in partnership with STEM Camp and was designed to inspire a new generation of girls, who will pursue STEM careers, to reach their limitless potential. #YouCanBeAnything (CNW Group/Mattel Canada, Inc.)

"STEM is all about science, exploration and discovery. We were so excited to send Barbie to space, so kids could learn the science and technology behind making this magic happen," explained Lisa Perry, Barbie Brand Manager at Mattel Canada. "For the first time, Barbie went to space and we hope this inspires a new generation of girls who will pursue STEM careers."

In addition, young girls were given the opportunity to hear directly from a successful female role model, Aerospace Engineer, Natalie Panek, who offered her insight into a career in aerospace engineering and how she continues to pursue her dream of exploring space. Natalie is a rocket scientist, explorer and champion for women in STEM. Natalie's dreams began at a young age with Barbie by her side to spark her imagination.

Barbie's space launch footage and images are available for use. Telephone interviews with Natalie Panek and Lisa Perry may be arranged. 

About Mattel
Mattel is a leading global children's entertainment company that specializes in design and production of quality toys and consumer products. We create innovative products and experiences that inspire, entertain and develop children through play. We engage consumers through our portfolio of iconic franchises, including Barbie^®, Hot Wheels^®, American Girl^®, Fisher-Price^®, Thomas & Friends^® and Mega^®, as well as other popular brands that we own or license in partnership with global entertainment companies. Our offerings include film and television content, gaming, music and live events. We operate in 40 locations and sell products in more than 150 countries in collaboration with the world's leading retail and technology companies. Since its founding in 1945, Mattel is proud to be a trusted partner in exploring the wonder of childhood and empowering kids to reach their full potential. Visit us online at www.mattel.com.

About STEM Camp
STEM Camp is a Canadian registered not-for-profit organization with a mandate to offer quality STEM-based programming through educational activities. STEM Camp was founded in 2013 with two locations and has grown to 48 locations confirmed for 2019. STEM Camp offers specialized summer camps designed to inspire children between the ages 5-13 through hands-on and inquiry-based activities in the STEM fields.

SOURCE Mattel Canada, Inc.

Media contact: Emilia Rojas, GCI Canada, Email: [email protected], Mobile number: 416-728-3813