Barbie is inspiring the next generation of female leaders

How Barbie is Inspiring Future Female Leaders in the Workforce

Louise Bennett

July 2, 2025

Note: This blog was initially written in September 2023. It has been rewritten and updated in July 2025.

The Barbie Effect

In 2023, Barbie made more than just a box office splash. It reignited conversations around gender roles, ambition, and representation. For Australian employers and HR leaders, it raised a timely question:

How do we create environments where young women can see themselves as future leaders?

As organisations strive to improve gender diversity in business, Barbie’s evolution offers surprising insights into how we can better support female leadership and inspire young women to step into their potential.

Why Barbie Still Matters in 2025

Barbie has held over 200 careers, from astronaut to architect, surgeon to software engineer. Her journey reflects a broader cultural shift: one that encourages girls to dream big and lead boldly.

Key reasons Barbie remains relevant:

She normalises women in leadership roles from an early age.
She challenges outdated gender stereotypes in the workforce.
She sparks curiosity in underrepresented fields like STEM and politics.

A little girl is wearing a lab coat and holding a stethoscope around her neck.

The Gender Confidence Gap in Australian Workplaces

Despite progress, many young women still hesitate to see themselves as leaders. This isn’t due to a lack of talent but often a lack of visible role models and support.

Did you know?

The most recent LinkedIn data shows that women hold just 30.6% of leadership positions globally, with Australia faring only slightly better at 33.9%.¹

This confidence gap can start early and persist into adulthood, affecting career choices, promotions, and leadership aspirations.

What contributes to the gap?

Limited exposure to female leaders
Stereotypes around “leadership traits”
Lack of mentorship and sponsorship

From Plastic Role Models to Real Ones: What Leaders Can Do

Barbie may be fictional, but the message she sends is powerful: you can be anything.

Employers can build on this message by creating real-world pathways for women to lead.

Ways to support emerging female leaders:

Highlight diverse leadership stories internally
Offer structured mentorship programs
Invest in leadership development tailored to women
Audit and improve gender equity in hiring and promotion

A group of women in business suits are standing next to each other in an office.

How Employers Can Inspire Future Female Talent

Creating a culture that supports women in the workforce starts with intention and action.

Here’s how to start:

Review your leadership pipeline: Are women equally represented?
Promote inclusive leadership training: Equip all leaders to support diverse teams.
Celebrate success stories: Visibility matters – share wins and journeys.
Partner with experts: Work with DEI consultants to identify and close gaps.

Explore how Chandler Macleod’s diversity, equity and inclusion services can help you build a more inclusive workplace.