Zoja Skubis is a traveler who became the youngest Polish woman to summit both Manaslu (8,163 m) and Mount Everest (8,849 m) at just 19 years old. Her list of remarkable achievements extends well beyond high-altitude mountaineering. She has run a half marathon at the South Pole in temperatures of –40°C, completed a marathon in Antarctica, rollerbladed 500 kilometers across the United States, and raced along the notorious Death Road in Bolivia.
A Barbie that reflects her journey
The first-ever Barbie Dream Team is project gathering a global group of women who are breaking barriers in their fields and inspiring the next generation of girls to pursue their ambitions with confidence
As part of the honor, Skubis received a one-of-a-kind Barbie doll. The figure portrays her in the outfit she wore while approaching Everest Base Camp: her favorite jacket, trekking boots, and pants from Adidas Terrex, paired with her signature sunglasses.
"When I first received the message that I would have my own Barbie doll, I was in complete shock," Skubis said. "I was convinced it couldn’t be real. I personally struggle to stand in front of the mirror and tell myself that I’ve done a good job. That’s why being recognized by Barbie means so much to me."
Skubis joins a diverse group of women from around the world who were also honored with the Barbie Role Model title and their own dolls this year. The 2026 honorees include:
- Serena Williams (United States), a tennis legend with 23 Grand Slam titles and a global business and cultural influence
- Kellie Gerardi (United States), research astronaut
- Regina Sirvent Alvarado (Mexico), professional racing driver and one of Mexico’s most recognizable figures in motorsport
- Chloe Kelly (United Kingdom), professional footballer and one of the leading faces of modern women’s football
- Helene Fischer (Germany), one of the most successful and influential pop artists in Germany
- Stephanie Gilmore (Australia), professional surfer and the first woman to win eight world titles in the World Surf League
Honoring Skubis alongside other pioneering women reflects Barbie’s broader mission to showcase diverse role models and encourage girls to believe in their potential. Since its debut in 1959, the brand has highlighted women who challenge expectations and demonstrate the many paths young people can take in life.
(aj)
SOURCE: PAP; Mattel