Brazilian 'Moana' Cosplayer Builds Her Own Raft and Gains Local Fame

Maria Rodrigues dos Santos, a 37-year-old hairdresser from Itanhaém, São Paulo, has become a local sensation known as the 'Brazilian Moana.' She has been cosplaying for eight years and feels a strong connection to the character Moana, particularly her determination to pursue her goals. To embody the character, Maria crafted her own raft using a kayak and recycled materials, inspired by the one used in the film. She also creates her own costumes, makeup, and accessories, including the character's signature necklace and oar. Maria's dedication to her craft has led her to be hired for events like openings and birthday parties, where she entertains guests, especially children. Her portrayal recently gained significant attention through a special photoshoot on the local beaches, conceptualized by photographer Luiz Fernando Vieira da Silva, also known as 'Luka.' The photographer utilized a drone to capture stunning images that have boosted Maria's visibility on social media. The photoshoot, which took place on Sonho and Pescadores beaches, was completed quickly but yielded impressive results, exceeding expectations. Maria, a mother of two, Adrielly (11) and Noah Gabriel (2), was even invited to entertain at the premiere of the live-action Moana film in Itanhaém.