24-year-old ‘Moana’ star Auli’i Cravalho got her family off food stamps and bought mom a house with Disney paycheck

Moana star success story

Moana Star Auli’i Cravalho: A Success Story of Talent, Perseverance, and Giving Back

The journey of Auli’i Cravalho, the voice behind Disney’s Moana, is a heartwarming tale of resilience, talent, and a deep commitment to family. At just 24 years old, Auli’i has already achieved remarkable milestones that have not only transformed her life but also the lives of her loved ones. From humble beginnings to becoming a global sensation, her story is a testament to the power of hard work, self-belief, and staying grounded.

A Star Is Born

Born on November 22, 2000, in Kohala, Hawaii, Auli’i Cravalho grew up in a modest household. Raised by her mother, Puanani Cravalho, Auli’i was instilled with a strong sense of responsibility and family values. Her childhood in Hawaii was filled with the rich traditions of Polynesian culture, which would later resonate deeply in her breakout role as Moana.

Before she became the voice of a Disney princess, Auli’i was an ordinary high school student balancing academics, extracurricular activities, and her passion for music. She participated in her school’s glee club and nurtured dreams of one day becoming a performer. However, she never imagined that her life would change so dramatically at such a young age.

The Big Break

Auli’i’s journey to stardom began in the most unexpected way. In 2015, Disney held a worldwide casting call to find the voice of Moana, the courageous Polynesian teenager in their upcoming animated film. Despite initial hesitation, Auli’i submitted her audition, encouraged by her family and friends who recognized her immense talent.

Her natural charm, confident voice, and deep connection to her Hawaiian roots made her stand out among thousands of hopefuls. At just 14 years old, Auli’i landed the coveted role, becoming the youngest Disney princess in history. Her performance in Moana was widely praised, as she brought authenticity, warmth, and depth to the character.

Moana’s Global Impact

Released in 2016, Moana was an instant success, grossing over $645 million worldwide. The film’s empowering story of self-discovery and cultural pride struck a chord with audiences across the globe. Auli’i’s rendition of the song “How Far I’ll Go” became an anthem of resilience and determination, earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song.

The movie didn’t just elevate Auli’i’s career; it also shone a spotlight on Polynesian culture, breaking barriers in Hollywood and inspiring young people from underrepresented communities to pursue their dreams.

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Transforming Her Family’s Life

While Moana brought Auli’i fame and fortune, she remained grounded and focused on her family. Before her Disney paycheck, her family struggled financially, relying on food stamps to make ends meet. Auli’i’s success provided her with the means to change their circumstances dramatically.

One of her proudest achievements was buying her mother a home, a gesture that symbolized gratitude and love. Reflecting on this milestone, Auli’i often emphasizes the importance of family support and staying humble despite newfound success.

Challenges Along the Way

Auli’i’s rise to fame was not without challenges. Like many young stars, she faced the pressures of public scrutiny and the responsibility of representing her culture on a global stage. Navigating these demands while maintaining her authenticity was no small feat.

She has also spoken openly about the challenges of transitioning from being a student in Hawaii to a public figure in Hollywood. Auli’i’s ability to adapt and grow in the face of these challenges is a testament to her resilience and strong sense of self.

Expanding Horizons

After Moana, Auli’i continued to pursue her passion for acting and singing. She appeared in various projects, including the NBC drama Rise and the Netflix film All Together Now. Each role showcased her versatility and commitment to her craft.

In addition to her acting career, Auli’i has become an advocate for cultural representation and environmental conservation, often drawing inspiration from her Hawaiian heritage. She uses her platform to raise awareness about issues affecting her community and encourages others to take pride in their roots.

Lessons from Auli’i’s Journey

Auli’i Cravalho’s story offers valuable lessons for anyone striving to achieve their dreams:

1. Embrace Your Heritage: Auli’i’s connection to her Polynesian roots has been a source of strength and inspiration throughout her journey.
2. Stay Humble: Despite her success, Auli’i remains deeply connected to her family and values. Her humility is a reminder of the importance of gratitude and staying grounded.
3. Persevere Through Challenges: From financial struggles to the pressures of fame, Auli’i has demonstrated incredible resilience, proving that perseverance is key to overcoming obstacles.
4. Give Back: Auli’i’s decision to use her success to improve her family’s life highlights the importance of sharing your blessings and lifting others as you rise.

The Road Ahead

At just 24 years old, Auli’i Cravalho’s journey is far from over. As she continues to grow as an artist and advocate, her story will undoubtedly inspire countless others to pursue their dreams while staying true to themselves.

From her humble beginnings in Hawaii to becoming the voice of a Disney princess, Auli’i has proven that talent, determination, and a strong sense of purpose can overcome even the most challenging circumstances. Her journey is not just a success story but also a celebration of cultural pride, family values, and the limitless potential of young talent.

As Auli’i herself would sing in Moana, the journey doesn’t end; it’s all about discovering “how far you’ll go.” For Auli’i Cravalho, the future is as bright as the Polynesian sun she grew up under.