Bibinee Dolls is a family run, early years toy brand on a mission to break societal stereotypes and give children toys to play with that reflect the diversity around them. Started in 2023 and born out of the frustration at the lack of black and brown dolls for newborns, Bibinee Dolls sells a range of soft, plush toys, clothing and bags that will appeal to boys and girls from birth.
The word Bibinee is a nod to the Ghanaian heritage of the brand’s founders. It is slang for black (bibinii), in the Ghanaian language Twi. The range also uses traditional Ghanaian fabrics like Ankara and Kente. Originally hand woven exclusively for royalty Kente fabrics are now made in hundreds of different patterns, each with their own history and meaning.
Co-Founder Stephanie Mensah believes that “showing love and appreciation for black and brown skin, hair, features and culture, will help to build confidence, a sense of identity, and self-love in our young owners. It will also normalise acceptance of all races from early years and hopefully beyond, helping to eradicate colourism.”
Bibinee Dolls received a Bronze award in the 2023 Junior Design Awards with Deputy Editor Eleonore Crompton commenting: “These dolls will have such a positive impact on young kids and it would be great to see them in school nurseries. Great that they are machine washable giving them a longer life.”
The range includes Amirah who wears a beautiful light pink Hijab; Mabel who comes in a range of outfits; boy dolls Kojo and Reiss and Skye a unisex rainbow baby. Many of the dolls can be personalised and there is even a Ballerina doll who comes with a backpack your child can use for Nursery, school, or weekends away.
Check out the full range at: www.bibineedolls.com
