As women, we are more than the boxes society tries to fit us into.

We can be both strong and gentle, ambitious and compassionate, outspoken and empathetic.

Each one of us is a masterpiece, woven from the threads of our experiences and the dreams we dare to chase.

As we journey through life, it's the little moments that leave lasting impressions on our hearts.

For me, those moments involved playing with Barbie dolls, even though they didn't quite look like me. But in the absence of representation, I discovered something profound – the power to create my own narrative and imagine my own Limited Edition Barbie.

Growing up, I longed to see a Barbie that reflected my identity, one that embraced my deep melanin hue and celebrated the beauty of strong, ambitious, and kind Black women like my mother, grandmothers, Iman, Naomi Campbell, and Beverly Johnson.

So, I crafted my own vision:

• She was Black.
• She was strong.
• She was beautiful.
• She was kind.
• She was ambitious.
• She was a giver.
• She was full of fire.
• She was independent but welcomed partnership.
• She was full of grace.
• She rose to the challenge.
• She made an impact.
• She comfortably laughed and cried and sometimes at the same time.
• She respected the outlooks and opinions of others different than hers.
• She had enough love to give away to strangers.

Playing with Barbie was so much more than playtime; it was where I embraced my identity and defied societal norms.

In a world filled with conflicting expectations of womanhood, I realized that we have the power to write our own stories and define ourselves on our own terms.

I encourage all women to celebrate their uniqueness and rise above any limitations imposed by others. Our essence as women is a tapestry of strength, resilience, and beauty in all its diverse forms. We are more than the boxes society tries to fit us into – we can be both strong and gentle, ambitious and compassionate, outspoken and empathetic.

Together, we break barriers, shatter stereotypes, and create a world where every woman feels seen, heard, and empowered. The power to define womanhood lies within each of us, and it's time to fearlessly embrace our true selves, no matter what the world may say.

So, as we continue this journey, let's envision our own Limited Edition Barbie and let our imagination inspire a generation of women. Embrace your unique journey, and together, let's inspire the world with our strength, grace, and unyielding spirit.

With mad love and empowerment,