Moana Hope, a former Australian rules football player and reality TV star, has been making waves with her candid and unapologetic approach to life post-divorce. Her journey is a testament to the power of self-discovery and the importance of embracing one's true self, even if it means breaking societal norms. In an exclusive interview, Hope opens up about her dating life, her new business ventures, and her advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, all while navigating the challenges of single motherhood.
A New Chapter, A New Me
After a high-profile marriage to Swedish model Isabella Carlstrom, which ended in 2023, Hope is embracing a new chapter of self-discovery. She describes her post-divorce life as a magical journey of re-finding herself, stating, "I completely lost myself in my marriage, and since my separation, every year that’s gone past, re-finding myself and discovering myself has been one of the most magical moments of my life. All of my outfits are just me."
Her approach to dating is refreshingly honest. She admits to being a bit of a loner, stating, "I’ve never ‘dated’ in my life, ever. I’ve normally just met someone. [Dating] is weird; I just can’t do small talk. It’s not for me. I’m waiting for the call to be the female Bachelorette for lesbians. Haven’t had it yet …". This candidness is a refreshing change, challenging the traditional dating norms and embracing authenticity.
The Challenges of Public Life and Dating
As a public figure, Hope faces unique challenges when it comes to dating. She explains, "I’ve had an instance where I’ve met with someone and given them [the] unfiltered me. But they have this preconceived idea of who I [am] based on social media or my profile. I’m like, ‘No, I just want to have an equal opportunity to you. I don’t know you, just give me a blank canvas to be myself without being judged. So I think it’s really hard."
Her experience as a single mum adds another layer of complexity to her dating life. She shares, "Dating also isn’t easy when you’re a single mum of two. The sports star and her ex co-parent their five-and-a-half-year-old daughter Svea, who was carried by Carlstrom, and four-year-old son Ahi, who was also conceived via IVF with the same donor and carried by Hope."
A Champion for LGBTQ+ Rights
Hope is also a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. She shares a personal story about receiving a homophobic message from an unnamed retired AFLW player, which prompted a wave of support from the community. She states, "If this happened to me 10 years ago, there would be 200 comments telling me to get over it. But every comment, from straight people, [was]: ‘This is unacceptable, call her out, we don’t want this in our community.’"
Her mother, who initially didn’t approve of her being gay, is now one of her biggest supporters. She reflects, "People of that generation have been taught this for 50, 60 years. Asking them to unlearn something overnight isn’t possible, and so patience and a kind way of delivering a new way of thinking or education around it is one of the most important things."
A Multi-Faceted Life
Hope is a busy woman with multiple ventures. She has a new business in consulting and design for traffic management, where she’s focused on teaching stay-at-home mums how to start their own business. She also returned to playing local footy, stating, "I play for a women’s team, and outside of my kids and family, these girls are my family; they’re incredible. A lot of them have kids, [who] they bring and it’s 20 kids going nuts while all these women are training. This is us making it work."
Looking Ahead
Looking ahead, Hope is excited about taking her children on their first international trip to Fiji. She reflects on her time on Australian Survivor, stating, "Survivor changed my life. It was one of the most incredible experiences. I’d probably do it again one day, but I want my kids to be old enough where I’d feel comfortable to be away from them."
In conclusion, Moana Hope’s journey is a powerful reminder of the importance of self-discovery and authenticity. Her unapologetic approach to life, dating, and advocacy is a beacon of hope for many, challenging societal norms and inspiring others to embrace their true selves. As she continues to navigate her new chapter, she serves as a role model for women everywhere, showing that it’s never too late to redefine yourself and live life on your terms.
