It may feel like we’ve come a long way in introducing BIPOC and black dolls for kids of all backgrounds, but the reality is those toy aisles are far from multicultural. Since children learn through play, Black representation in toys is one of the ways to combat racism.
Clara D. Lewis is on a mission to break the cycle of low self-esteem that specifically targets Black girls and aims to foster a culture of acceptance among the next generation. Her collection of diverse dolls, from deeper to lighter complexions, including dolls representing kids with albinism and vitiligo aims to ensure that every little girl can own a doll that looks like her. For many generations and still today, Eurocentric features have been predominant in dolls: straight blond hair, blue eyes, and a thin nose. Beautiful and socially accepted, these dolls have nevertheless left harmful marks on the minds of children who were not born with similar traits.
Clara spoke with us about self-esteem, the importance of representation, and why Oprah is her biggest inspiration.
FEMI: Thank you for speaking with us, Clara! It’s great to meet you. Tell us about how you came up with the idea for your doll company, Brown Diva Dolls.
Brown Diva Dolls really came from my own experience. I only realized my own beauty going into my 40s. Growing up, I didn’t have any dolls that reflected my features – so when I started my company, I wanted every young girl to see a reflection of themselves in a beautiful doll. Our dolls range in skin complexion to hair color and hair texture. We want all little girls to feel represented.
FEMI: The mission of Brown Diva Dolls is to help the new generation to cultivate their self-esteem and acceptance of others. How important is representation in the toy market?
Yes indeed, it is very important, that is why I started my company. We are working on bettering and promoting self-esteem to the next generation.
FEMI: What is your hope for the company? Any specific goals you can share with us for the upcoming year?
To expand internationally and to be recognized for our hard work.
FEMI: Who are your biggest role models/inspirations?
Oprah because she is such a great role model for kids and she was my biggest inspiration because of her resilience. Also, Oprah has a foundation in Africa that I hope to be able to see one day – and to contribute to. I love the work that she is doing. My second would be Michelle Obama because she is the embodiment of the ideal ambitious woman and she is reflective of class, education and this is the image that I want little girls to emulate while growing up.
FEMI: What’s one piece of advice you have for new Black female entrepreneurs? Any lessons you had to learn the hard way.
Don’t be afraid to try, the worst you can say is that you gave it a try.
FEMI: Are the dolls currently available in any physical store or online only?
Our online store can ship internationally, and we are currently expanding to the US. The Brown Diva Dolls are currently available in 3 physical stores in Canada: Tour de Jeux in Fairview Pointe-Claire, Eaton Centre, and Complex Desjardins.
FEMI: We appreciate your time. Please tell our readers where they can follow Brown Diva Dolls and where to purchase them.
It is my pleasure, thank you so much for having me. Readers can follow the Brown Diva Dolls online at:
Website: https://browndivasdolls.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/browndivasdolls
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brown.divas.dolls/
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