Wilma Mankiller Barbie
The Wilma Foundation, in partnership with Mattel and The Cherokee Nation, embarked on a groundbreaking initiative to honor Wilma Mankiller, the first female Cherokee Chief, through the creation of a Barbie doll. This collaboration aimed to celebrate Mankiller's legacy and inspire future generations through Barbie's "Inspiring Women" collection.
Project Scope and Collaboration
As part of the Cherokee Nation's communications team, I was tasked with creating compelling graphics to promote the Wilma Mankiller Barbie doll across social media platforms. The challenge included aligning all visuals with both Cherokee Nation's branding guidelines and Mattel's brand standards, ensuring consistency and cohesiveness in messaging.
Graphic Development
One of the key deliverables was an Instagram carousel that showcased a variety of engaging images and emphasized impactful typography. The carousel was designed to capture attention and convey the significance of Wilma Mankiller's contributions as a leader and advocate for Cherokee rights and women's empowerment. Visual elements were carefully selected to resonate with the target audience and reflect the dignity and strength associated with Mankiller's legacy.
Execution and Strategy
The graphics were strategically crafted to highlight the cultural significance of Wilma Mankiller within the Cherokee community and beyond. Each element, from imagery to typography, was meticulously chosen to amplify the message of empowerment and resilience. The collaboration with Mattel ensured that the graphics not only met marketing objectives but also honored the authenticity and integrity of Mankiller's representation.
Impact and Outreach
Upon launch, the social media graphics garnered significant engagement and positive feedback from followers of Cherokee Nation and Barbie enthusiasts alike. The campaign successfully raised awareness about Wilma Mankiller's achievements and the importance of her inclusion in the Barbie "Inspiring Women" collection. The Reel story, in particular, fostered meaningful connections with audiences, sparking conversations about representation and cultural pride.
Conclusion
Collaborating on the Wilma Mankiller Barbie doll launch was a testament to the power of partnerships in celebrating cultural icons and promoting positive role models. Through thoughtful graphic design and strategic social media engagement, the Cherokee Nation effectively contributed to honoring Mankiller's legacy while inspiring a new generation of leaders and advocates.
