Jaedyn Randell - Maori Moana

We catch up with the voice of the new Maori version of Moana, Tokoroa’s Jaedyn Randell.

I understand you applied for the part of Moana because there was nothing to lose. How did you feel when you found out you had you got the call to say you have made it a step further, and again when you actually got the role?

The first thing that came to my head was how excited my little cousins would be. Their favourite movie is going to be in their first language, how cool is that!

When I got the call that I was fortunate to get the role of Moana, I couldn’t believe it. A few days went by and I was still in disbelief. I was in the studio working with the most talented cast and it still didn’t feel real. I am just so grateful for this amazing opportunity.

long has it taken to record Moana?

In total I recorded for about three weeks. I spent a few days working with Rob Ruha on the songs and a few weeks with Rachel House for the dialogue and performance side of things.

do you fit everything around school and socialising?

I have had so much support both at school and at home. My

‘‘The first thing that came to my head was how excited my little cousins would be.’’ Jaedyn Randell

mum is the most supportive person. She always makes time to help me out and make sure that I’m on track. In my down time I catch up with my school work and time with friends. The internet has been such a helpful resource due to the fact that a lot of my school work is uploaded there and it keeps me connected with my friends and family.

do you feel now knowing it has come to an end and knowing you are going to be so well known?

It is a somewhat sad feeling that it has come to an end but I’m excited as well! Excited because having completed the film means that it is available to be watched and enjoyed by everybody! On this journey I have learnt so many skills and learnt a lot about myself too. I have got to work with such talented people who also taught me so much.

you think that something so big could come from a person in such a small community?

Anything is possible. The opportunities available are endless. No matter who you are or where you come from there is a whole world out there for you to see. It’s up to you whether you keep chasing. Goal setting and hard work are the backbone to achieving your dreams. Just go for it!

do you have to say for people in places such as Tokoroa who have big dreams but don’t think they can go far?

You can honestly do anything! Whatever you set your mind to, you can achieve. Believe in yourself and follow your dreams because dreams aren’t meant to stay dreams. They’re created by you so that you have something to work towards. Everything happens for a reason…

here? do you want to go from

My dream from a young age has always been to pursue a career as an international musician/artist. I absolutely love performing and that is definitely what I want to be doing everyday.

other information/ quotes that you want to share would be awesome :)

Whaia te iti kahurangi, ki te tu¯ ohu koe me he maunga teitei.