If You Can Dream It, You Can Be It

Briana Randall

Remember being a kid and running to Toys “R” Us for that new Barbie doll? Barbie dolls were known to be iconic, independent women – women that little girls could look up too. This year, American singer, actress, dancer and model, Zendaya Coleman, was honored her own Barbie doll.

Of course many female students at Lynn have grown out of playing with Barbies, but for many this is still a big deal. Coleman is only 19 years old, and despite her being famous, she’s just a regular young woman trying to live her life.

Following her on Instagram, her fans will see her posting silly videos, selfies and endless funny memes. Despite how lovable the teen is she still faced major criticism this year after her appearance at the 2015 Oscars in February by former E! News anchor Guiliana Rancic.

All because she took a bold style choice wearing dreadlocks as she attended the event. Those harsh remarks did not stop Coleman for speaking up for not just herself, but also for all those that rock dreadlocks.

Now she stands on top as the new face of Barbie, with her own doll styled in her replicated Oscars look, complete with the dreadlocks. The females at Lynn acknowledge that Coleman truly deserved this honor but also shared some other females they wished were honored.

“I wish there was a Lauryn Hill Barbie,” said Aleiya Palmer, freshman. “She’s such a great artist, as well as an inspirational woman.”

Meanwhile, sophomore soccer players, Donish Henry Cole and Amanda Torres, both agreed that pro soccer player Mia Hamm would be another good choice for the next Barbie.

“I felt like she gave girl soccer players confidence to play, and made me constantly want to better myself as a soccer player,” said Cole.

Demi Lovato, a fellow singer and actress, was another pick amongst Lynn females.
To females on campus, Lovato is very empowering.

“With everything she’s been through with bullying, her eating disorder, and attempted suicides, I think she’s grown to be someone girls of all age can look up to. She proves that you can get through it if you fight,” said Rzepka.

Though many view playing with dolls as too childish, what Barbie represents to young women is much more than a just toy. Young woman like Coleman are the ones that make a difference and inspire not just the little girls that buy these dolls, but also the ones who used to rush to the store to buy them. So remember if you can dream it, you can be it.