A nine-year-old pupil from Launde Primary School in Oadby and Wigston is campaigning for more inclusive mannequins in department stores after observing that the mannequins in her favourite shops all looked the same.
Young Activist Notices Lack of Diversity
Mila Kumar was shopping at the Leicester Fosse Park M&S store with her mother, Neetu Kumar, when she noticed that all the mannequins displayed the same skin colour. A staff member named Helen encouraged Mila to write to the company with her ideas. In a covering note, Neetu Kumar said: “Her reflections were thoughtful and genuine, and prompted an important conversation between us… We know the influence organisations like M&S can have in shaping how people feel represented and included.”
Mila's Letter to M&S
In her letter, Mila wrote: “I really liked looking at all the clothes because they were very pretty and colourful. But I also felt a bit sad and confused when I looked at the mannequins. All of the mannequins looked the same colour, and none of them looked like me or lots of other people I see in the world.” She included a photograph to illustrate her point. Mila added: “I think it would be really nice if there were mannequins with different skin colours, because then more people could feel happy and see themselves in the clothes. I would love to see mannequins that are closer to my skin colour too.”
Positive Response from M&S
Mila received a reply from M&S within 24 hours. The letter stated: “Your feedback matters to us, and we’ll be sharing your message with the teams who look after our stores and displays. They’re always working on how we can do better, and your idea about having mannequins with different skin tones is something we know will make them stop and think.” The letter praised Mila for being “brave and kind” and for sparking an important conversation.
Mila's Reaction
Mila said: “It made me proud when I got the letter back. My mum thought it would take longer for them to reply than 24 hours! I really hope they will talk about it now and change the mannequin skin colours. If I see a change in the store, I will be proud. I will try to find the lady in the store who first helped me, and say, ‘Look what happened!’”
School Praises Pupil's Courage
Shelley Meer, headteacher at Launde Primary School, said: “I am incredibly proud of Mila, for the courage and thoughtfulness she has shown in writing to Marks & Spencer. Her simple but powerful question about representation reflects a deep understanding of inclusion and a confidence to speak up that is truly inspiring. Mila has shown that young people can challenge respectfully and meaningfully, and that their voices deserve to be heard. At Launde Primary School, we are committed to ensuring every child feels seen and valued. Mila’s actions embody these values, and we are delighted that her voice has prompted a response and sparked an important conversation. We are all immensely proud of her.”
