I remember a few years ago, there was a rumor that Disney was creating a new princess. And not just any princess, a Polynesian princess. As someone who was born and raised in Hawaii, and who is also Native Hawaiian, even the idea that Disney would create an Polynesian princess was mind boggling! Unsurprisingly, there was a lot of hype surrounding Moana upon the release of the international trailer because people believed that Moana would be a different princess. And she is! So here are the top 5 reasons why Moana is a completely new and amazing Disney princess.

1. She's like me!

I grew up primarily identifying with Mulan: a strong Asian female character. She was the only Disney princess that vaguely looked like me (as I am part Japanese and Chinese). But I never truly had a connection with any of the princesses. That is, until Moana came! Moana breaks the boundaries of a stereotypical Disney princess. She's tanned, has wild Polynesian hair, and her figure is more realistic looking than the other princesses. I relate to Moana's story and background on a deeper level. And I see myself in her, and she brings out the little Polynesian princess inside of me!

2. Disney definitely did their research.

I was surprised to read that Disney began researching for Moana back in 2011. Since then, the Moana crew has proven that Disney is capable of creating absolutely amazing movies that are credible, and real. The story of Moana is indeed felt everywhere in Polynesia.

My ancestors were in fact voyagers. Our islands are extremely family and community based. Maui is an actual myth and demigod. I give Disney a lot credit. They created a story that has truth, serves a purpose, and breaks barriers.

3. There are other empowering female characters in the story.

Moana isn't the only strong female character. Moana's mother and grandmother both teach Moana extremely important lessons about what it means to be both true to yourself and a good leader. Moana learns the importance of following your heart while keeping your people in mind. She does what she's meant to do, in order to become the person she's meant to be.

4. Moana knows she's more than just the chief's daughter.

Time and time again in the movie, Moana restated that she wasn't just the chief's daughter. Yes, she's technically a princess. But she definitely rejected the stereotypical princess motif, an idea that's new in the Disney world. A princess that doesn't accept her title as princess. Females everywhere see that we can be (and are) much more than what people want or think of us to be.

5. Moana came at a time when we needed her the most.

In a time of political and social unrest, we see a strong female character emerge from the darkness. Moana is embodies everything that women need to see in the face of uncertainty. Moana defies social norms, forges a path towards a better future, and provides hope to women (and young girls) around the world.

Hope for a better tomorrow. Hope that we will always be able to stand up for what we believe in and follow our dreams. Hope for a world where women stand as equals to men. Moana gave the world hope that women can be, and are just as strong as men are.