Moana 2's Auliʻi Cravalho: A Voice of Many Cultures

Eight years ago, a 16-year-old Auliʻi Cravalho stepped into the role of Moana, Disney's Polynesian princess. Now 24, she's back for "Moana 2, " a sequel that builds on Moana's self-discovery. Cravalho relates to Moana's journey, having looked up to another Disney hero, Mulan, who inspired her through her mix of Asian and Pacific Islander heritage. Just like Mulan, Moana uses ancient navigation techniques, a skill passed down through generations of Pacific Islanders. Cravalho's own heritage is rich and diverse, tracing back to Native Hawaiians, Puerto Ricans, Chinese, Irish, and Portuguese. She grew up appreciating this melting pot of cultures through food, festivals, and even learned Hawaiian dance. Hawaii, her home, is a blend of many cultures, similar to her own background. The ukulele, a symbol of Hawaii, was brought by Portuguese workers, and Spanish-speaking migrants have also left their marks on the Aloha State. Cravalho's role as Moana not only celebrates her Pacific Islander heritage but also inspires girls worldwide to see themselves as heroes.