Meet Mini Colettos: Australia’s Most Ethnically Diverse Doll Range Because Every Child Deserves a Doll That Looks Like Them

We were genuinely excited when our Mini Colettos doll arrived, but nothing prepared us for Arcadia’s reaction. She has not put it down since. It has been tucked under her arm at breakfast, carried from room to room, included in every game and gently laid beside her at bedtime. As a Christmas gift, it has already proven to be more than a toy. It is a companion, a comfort and a reflection.

That moment felt full circle when we learned the story behind Mini Colettos.

Where the Idea Began

Growing up in Sri Lanka, founder Shabnam Nuhuman rarely saw herself reflected in the toys around her. Dolls were either fair skinned with blonde hair or dark skinned with dark hair, but none looked like her.

“It was definitely something I noticed and felt disappointed about as a little girl,” Shabnam says. “I never had a doll that looked like me, and that experience stayed with me into adulthood.”

That quiet absence became something she never forgot.

From Education to Purpose

In 2006, Shabnam moved to Australia and completed her studies in early childhood education as an international student. Her career spanned multiple roles, from Room Leader to Assistant Centre Manager and eventually Centre Manager.

“During my studies and practical placements, I developed a strong understanding of child development, play based learning and the importance of inclusive, culturally aware environments for young children,” she says.

Working closely with children, families and educators, she became deeply aware of how play shapes identity and belonging. Yet one gap remained clear. The dolls available in early learning environments simply did not reflect the diversity of the children playing with them.

“This shaped my belief that toys are not just playthings,” Shabnam explains. “They are tools that nurture emotional expression, imaginative thinking and connection.”

The Moment Everything Aligned

At the same time, Shabnam’s husband Mushy was working at Knox and Floyd Imports, a respected Melbourne based toy company. In 2015, the couple acquired the business, bringing together Shabnam’s educational expertise and Mushy’s experience in sales, marketing and business.

Together, they began building what would become Mini Colettos.

“It was a real dream for me to create a range of dolls that represent a broad range of ethnicities,” Shabnam says. “The vision was to launch an Australian owned and designed doll brand that celebrates diversity.”

The response since launch has been extraordinary.

Thoughtfully Made and Built to Last

Mini Colettos dolls are manufactured in Spain to heirloom level quality. They are safety tested, anatomically correct, fragrance free and aligned with developmental principles.

“We partnered with a world renowned doll manufacturer with a focus on artisan craftsmanship, non toxic materials and lifelike designs,” Mushy explains. “Quality, safety and ethical production were non negotiable priorities.”

From overseeing prototypes to rigorous materials testing, every detail was refined until it met their standards.

Representation That Matters

The Mini Colettos range features more than 30 different dolls, both male and female, with varied hair colours, textures and lengths, eye colours, skin tones and facial features. The dolls represent African, Hispanic, European and Asian heritages, giving children real choice and meaningful representation.

The couple is currently designing a doll to represent Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, approaching the process with care and respect.

“With all respect, we are hoping to connect with the right representative who can guide us and ensure we take the correct steps,” Mushy says.

Why Parents Are Taking Notice

Parents around the world are responding not just to the diversity, but to the emotional impact.

“Many families tell us their children form strong emotional bonds with their dolls,” Mushy shares. “They see confidence grow and a stronger sense of belonging. That is the greatest validation for us.”

As parents themselves, Shabnam and Mushy have spent years thinking about how children relate to dolls, the stories they tell and how imaginative play builds empathy, social understanding and self worth.

A Growing Global Brand with Heart

Since launching in 2022, Mini Colettos has generated over $500,000 in revenue and sold more than 28,000 dolls worldwide. The range is stocked online and in boutiques globally and includes handcrafted outfits and accessories designed to extend play and storytelling.

“We want Mini Colettos to be companions in children’s stories,” Shabnam says. “Helping them explore their feelings, express themselves and celebrate their uniqueness while sparking joy and curiosity.”

Why This Doll Stays in Little Hands

Watching Arcadia bond with her Mini Colettos doll feels like witnessing the power of representation in real time. This is not a doll that gets tossed aside once the wrapping paper is gone. It is played with, cared for and loved.

And that is exactly the point.

Mini Colettos is not just about diversity on a shelf. It is about connection in everyday play.

For more information, visit https://minicolettos.com/

Disclaimer: Product was kindly gifted. Coverage was not guaranteed and all opinions are based on personal experience.