Credit: Mike Palmer
Schoolgirls Take On Ultimate Work Experience To Break ‘Stereotype’ Of Male Builders
Schoolgirls took on epic work experience at LEGO and made a very important point while doing so.
The young creatives honed their skills as creators and builders at the Dance Your Way Home festival at London’s Southbank Centre on August 5 and 6, proving they’re not just male-dominated roles.
The ‘She Built That’ event saw 350 girls tackle roles including art director, boom operator, set builders, and stylist in addition to performing as dancers in the final show – created by an entirely female crew.
It was organized after research from the LEGO Group discovered 86% of UK parents and children believe the media depicts boys as builders or creators more often than girls.
The initiative aims to champion inclusivity in creative spaces and modernize perceptions of what it means to be a ‘builder’ today.
The survey also revealed that 79% of parents believe society and the media highlight men’s inventions more than women’s.
A clear confidence gap exists between moms (56%) and dads (73%) in how they rate their ability to ‘build’ – showing long-standing gender biases.
Of those quizzed, 83% of parents think it’s time for society to rethink the word ‘building’ and make it more gender inclusive.
The research also revealed that parents are eager for their kids to explore their creativity through building, with 78% wishing their child could build more.
The content showcased the talent and creativity of the young people, with a few special guest appearances including content creators and professionally trained dancers Brooke & Jess, TrendKids, Starr Kiely, and Laurie Elle.
12-year-old Annabelle took up the mantle as Art Director, heading up the crew of young girls.
She said: “Directing people at the event felt like the best building project ever. Aside from building bricks, we built a story, amazing dance routines, and big ideas together.
“I want other girls to know that creating isn’t just for boys or adults – it’s for anyone with imagination and a bit of courage.”
Kuran Sharma, Head of Marketing for the UK & Ireland at the LEGO Group, stated: “We see a world of endless creative possibilities for girls.
“That’s why this event was so crucial in helping redefine and reclaim what it means to be a builder as we collectively shift the narrative.
“We assembled an all-female crew so the girls taking part can see themselves reflected in every aspect of production – from behind the camera through to center stage.”
Director Chlöe Victoria Hughes commented: “We could’ve filmed this in a studio with professional dancers and flawless choreography, but that’s not what this project is about.
“We wanted real girls who were excited to be part of something new, to have fun and to bring their own energy and joy to the screen.
“This wasn’t about perfection, it was about connection, expression and giving people a unique experience.
“Honestly, it was the most fun I’ve ever had on set.”
In June, the campaign kicked off with an initiative to champion the buildings around London that were built or designed by women. Brick Plaques were created to recognize the female builders responsible for the capital city’s skyline.
You can watch the ‘She Built That’ dance takeover here…
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