At 4 months old, Zane Kahin from Winter Park, FL [1], can already add spokesperson to his résumé. The winner of Gerber's 11th annual photo search, Zane will serve as the official Gerber Spokesbaby — which, for the first time, includes taking on the honourary role of chief growing officer (CGO) on the brand's executive committee for a year. Described as having a cheerful attitude, infectious giggles, and a "playful smile that can light up any room," it's no wonder Zane was hired.
According to his mom, Zane has a lively personality and loves laughing in his bouncer and spending time with his "fur siblings," 10-year-old Rexy [2] and 3-year-old Liv [3]. "Zane is our little comedian — he loves to crack himself up and even wakes up laughing," his mom, Erin Kahin [4], said in a press release. For the new mom, who survived breast cancer and underwent a double mastectomy before her son's birth, being able to hold Zane in her arms has been a beautiful experience.
"Our family continues to enjoy every moment and look at life with appreciation and a sense of humour."
"On February 3, 2021, our shining light Zane came into our lives — beating all odds," Erin said. "When I was diagnosed with breast cancer at 27 years old and a newly single woman, my doctors were unsure how the impact of chemotherapy, radiation and a double mastectomy would impact my ability to have children. After getting married to my husband over a year ago, we surprisingly conceived naturally and had a near perfect pregnancy. Our family continues to enjoy every moment and look at life with appreciation and a sense of humour." After Erin shared her inspiring story, we sure hope Zane knows he has an incredible mama.
In his new role, Zane will serve as chief taste tester and review new baby-food products, provide his "advice" about what babies need to grow up happy and healthy, and serve as Gerber CEO for a day, helping to make important business decisions. Zane will also receive a $25,000 cash prize, free Gerber products for up to one year, and a CGO wardrobe valued at $1,000 provided by Gerber Childrenswear. The brand is also selling a limited-edition CGO Onesie [5] ($10) in Zane's honour. For every onesie sold, Gerber will donate the equivalent purchase amount to Delivering Good [6], an organisation dedicated to providing resources for children and families in need.
"Photo Search is a moment that brings families together in celebration year after year, and the Gerber family is delighted to welcome Zane as this year's Gerber Spokesbaby and first-ever Chief Growing Officer," Gerber representative Mohini Joshi said. "By recognising that every baby is a Gerber baby, we celebrate the diversity of families — whether that's where we're from, who our parents are or the circumstances in which baby came into the world." Scroll through a few of Zane's best snapshots and soak up some of his sunny demeanour ahead.
