Playing with purpose: Barbie gets real with Type 1 Diabetes doll

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition that causes the pancreas to produce little or no insulin, leading to dependence on insulin therapy and potential short and long-term complications. It affects nearly nine million people worldwide, with diagnosis occurring in both childhood and adulthood.

Mattel, Inc. has introduced its first-ever Barbie doll with type 1 diabetes (T1D), a significant step towards inclusivity and representation in the toy industry. The new doll, part of the Barbie Fashionistas line, features a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) on her arm, an insulin pump attached to her waist, and a phone displaying a CGM app to track blood sugar levels.

Key Features:

• Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM): A wearable device that continuously measures blood sugar levels.
• Insulin pump: A small device that allows for automated insulin dosing.
• Blue polka dot outfit: A stylish top and matching skirt representing diabetes awareness.
• Purse: A pastel blue bag to carry essentials, such as snacks and T1D supplies.

A powerful moment for diabetes awareness

Locally, this doll is supported by the Diabetes Alliance, a national coalition of organisations and individuals committed to improving the lives of people living with diabetes in South Africa.

"The introduction of a Barbie doll with a continuous glucose monitor or CGM, is a powerful moment for diabetes awareness. It reflects one of the most important innovations in diabetes care in recent years, namely, continuous glucose monitoring, which has transformed the lives of many people living with diabetes, especially children.

"By bringing this reality into the hands of children everywhere, we help reduce stigma, spark empathy, and foster important conversations in families, schools, and communities," says Dr Patrick Ngassa Piotie, Chairperson, Diabetes Alliance South Africa.

South Africa has two local ambassadors championing visibility for T1B: Holly Rey, a 29-year-old multi-Platinum selling and multi-award-winning South African artist, and 10-year-old dancer, Sayuri Sewsunker.

"Growing up with Type 1 Diabetes, I always felt like an outsider. I was looked at like I had something wrong with me, and was bullied as a result of it. Diabetes was viewed as something that you did to yourself, and this lack of understanding led to being called names, being left out of activities, birthday parties and sports teams,” says Holly Rey.

"The truth is, I found a lot of comfort in playing with my Barbies as a child. If there were a Barbie with type 1 diabetes back then, I think it would have changed my life. Not only would it have made me feel seen and feel like there was nothing wrong with me, but it also would have made kids at school realise that having Diabetes does not mean that there is something wrong with you, in fact, it makes you special. Because if Barbie has Diabetes, then it must be ok for me to have diabetes, it might even be cool,” she adds.

“I truly believe that this Barbie with Diabetes is going to create so much awareness around Diabetes and change the narrative around what diabetes is and who it looks like. Diabetes, type 1 and 2, affects millions of people, and I think that this Barbie is going to ignite some very important conversations that need to be had, not just with kids, but with adults, society and healthcare system decision makers."

Mattel partnered with Breakthrough T1D, a leading global type 1 diabetes research and advocacy organisation, to ensure the doll's design accurately reflects the medical equipment and experiences of individuals with type 1 diabetes.

This collaboration aims to promote awareness, understanding, and empathy among children.

The new Barbie doll has received positive feedback from the diabetes community, with many praising Mattel for promoting representation and inclusivity. 

The 2025 Barbie Fashionistas dolls, including the Barbie doll with Type 1 diabetes, are now available on Mattel Shop and at retailers nationwide.