LONDON: Barbie may not have won at the Oscars, but she made a new friend on Tuesday: Queen Camilla, who was immortalized as one of the iconic dolls. “You’ve taken about 50 years off (me)… we should all have a Barbie,” the queen joked as she was presented with the doll modeled closely on her own image.
Camilla, 76, whose cancer-stricken husband, King Charles III, has currently stepped back from royal duties, received the gift in recognition of her work as the president of the Women of the World (WOW) Foundation. She was joined by Mathilde, Queen of Belgium, and actor Helen Mirren, the narrator of last year’s blockbuster “Barbie” starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling.
The film, released last year, has been a box office success but missed out on all but one of the nine Oscars it was nominated for at last week’s Academy Awards.
Queen Camilla’s interaction with the Barbie doll not only showcases a light-hearted moment but also highlights her involvement in promoting gender equality through her role as the president of the Women of the World (WOW) Foundation. This initiative aims to empower women and girls globally, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and diversity.
The significance of Queen Camilla receiving a Barbie doll in her likeness goes beyond a simple gift exchange. It symbolizes the recognition of her contributions to society and her representation as a strong female leader. The presence of other influential figures like Queen Mathilde of Belgium and renowned actor Helen Mirren further emphasizes the importance of supporting initiatives that advocate for women’s rights and equality.
The Women of the World (WOW) Girls Festival Bus tour, culminating in a reception at Buckingham Palace, serves as a platform to celebrate International Women’s Day and amplify the voices of women from diverse backgrounds. The event not only honors the achievements of women but also serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts needed to achieve gender parity and inclusivity in all sectors of society.