Wayfinding reveals ancient navigational skills that challenge modern methods
- The film Moana showcases the practice of wayfinding, celebrated for its cultural significance among Pacific Islanders.
- Kamalau, an expert in wayfinding and advisor for Moana, highlights the emotional connection many feel to the ocean through this ancient navigation technique.
- The success of the film has sparked interest and appreciation for indigenous practices and traditions, especially among younger audiences.
In 2016, Disney released its animated feature that prominently featured the ancient Polynesian practice of wayfinding. This art of sea navigation allowed Pacific Islanders to traverse vast oceanic expanses using environmental cues instead of modern tools. Kamalau, who grew up learning about this practice in a Hawaiian language immersion school, served as an advisor for the film as well as its sequel. The film's portrayal of wayfinding sparked a deeper interest in this cultural heritage among audiences, connecting them with the mystical elements of the ocean. Kamalau noted that the film resonated deeply with island communities because it depicted vibrant aspects of their ancestral knowledge. The emotional impact of the storytelling led to a renewed appreciation for wayfinding, as it illustrates the significance of both navigation and the connection to the ocean for Polynesian peoples. Kamalau's experience as an advisor not only highlighted the challenges of representing indigenous culture in mainstream media but also underscored the transformative power of storytelling that honors traditional practices and beliefs.