Scientist given Barbie doll for International Women's Day

Mattel have gifted renowned British scientist Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock a one-of-a-kind Barbie doll in honour of International Women's Day. While it may seem a bit backwards at first to see a woman gifted a Barbie doll as part of the celebrations, Dr Aderin-Pocock's doll is part of Mattel's Barbie Role Models, which celebrate women who make great achievements across the globe.

Dr Aderin-Pocock is most well-known for her work on the BBC, where she hosts The Sky At Night. As well as receiving a doll from Mattel, the toy company is also working to place Dr Aderin-Pocock's book "Am I Made of Stardust?" to schools across the UK.

"I hope my doll will remind girls that, when you reach for the stars, anything is possible," Dr Aderin-Pocock said. "As a black woman, I've found that I don't always fit some people's perception of a scientist. We do often have these stereotypical images of what people do, and I like to smash those stereotypes whenever I get the opportunity."

"When I was little, Barbie didn't look like me, so to have one created in my likeness is mind-boggling," she added. "It's such an honour to receive this doll that is celebrating my achievements... My daughter and I danced around the living room when we heard!"

Thanks, The Independent.