by The South Lake Tablet
In the heart of South Lake County, where “Minneola” poetically translates to “many waters,” lives a woman who fully embodies that name. A long-time resident, educator, artist, and performer, Vale Anoa’i, better known as the Minneola Mermaid, is enchanting Central Florida with her boundless creativity and message of self-belief.
“I’m at home wherever the water takes me,” Vale says. “Even in still waters, in lakes, everything will eventually evaporate or sink into the Earth. Even when there are tears, they heal and free the heavy emotions from the body.”
Vale has lived in Minneola since 2008, but her roots run deep in a world full of performance and storytelling. She is the daughter of WWE Hall of Fame wrestling legend Afa the Wild Samoan, and many locals may remember when the Anoa’i family brought the excitement of WXW Wrestling to Minneola City Hall. That chapter closed with the passing of her father in August 2024, but Vale continues to carry his legacy of showmanship and resilience in her own unique way.
A special education teacher by profession and an artist by nature, Vale is the author of nine books, a dancer versed in belly dance, ballroom, and Latin styles, and a motivational speaker. But it’s her mermaid persona that truly captures imaginations across all ages.
The Minneola Mermaid isn’t just about wearing a tail—it’s about believing in your own magic and helping others do the same. With a message rooted in empowerment and self-expression, Vale brings joy and wonder to a wide variety of events, including:
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Mermaid character birthday parties
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Paint & Sip and craft classes
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Mermaid tea parties and story times at libraries and bookstores
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Oracle card readings and guided meditations
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Vocal performances and pirate-themed karaoke
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Art shows, modeling, photo shoots, and themed festivals
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Motivational speaking engagements
Whether she’s posing for photos at a community festival or leading a meditation surrounded by seashells and salt lamps, Vale’s goal remains the same: to inspire others to live their wildest dreams and stay in flow, no matter the waters.
“Even in the mist and fog,” she says, “secrets can be hidden in me.”
As Minneola continues to grow and evolve, its Mermaid reminds us that there’s still plenty of room for magic, mystery, and movement—whether in the arts, in nature, or in ourselves.
To learn more or book the Minneola Mermaid for your next event, Vale Anoa’i is available for collaborations, celebrations, and community-centered gatherings of all kinds at mailto:MinneolaMermaid@aol.com. Visit her facebook page at Vale-The Minneola Mermaid
