Nigerian native, Taofick Okoya, 43, was having a horrible time trying to find a doll for his niece. There was nothing that represented their color or culture, so in 2007, he created Queens of Africa. It’s a doll line Nigerian girls could identify with. Queens of Africa has become so popular, it is now outselling Barbie in his country.
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The doll collections is a replica of the country’s three biggest tribes and aims to promote strong feminine ideals; love, peace & endurance. It’s currently selling around 9,000 units per month. Although the doll line may have started in Nigeria, because of the internet – it’s gained worldwide popularity especially in America, Brazil & Europe.
‘My mission is to make the Queens of Africa a symbol of hope, trust, and confidence by promoting African history, culture, and fashion.’ says Okoya
Okoya’s daughter once wished she was white, mainly because of European influences in his country. He only wants his daughter to love the skin she’s in and appreciate her own culture. What’s very interesting is that, Okoya has been told that he will not be able to sell his dolls on shelves in America. He will be limited to specialty stores, he is going to continue to fight for his right to sell in America.
BMWK, would you buy one of these dolls for your daughter?