The Disney Princesses have been an inspiration to many since their first member, Snow White, was introduced in 1937. Their kindness, optimism, and courage, among many other principled qualities, have made them role models to children. And for these iconic characters to continue inspiring people, especially the new generation, top-notch graphic artist Matt Burt teamed up with Simple Thrifty Living to reimagine them as modern day career women.
The illustrations below reinterpret the Disney Princesses as professionals succeeding in various fields traditionally dominated by men — a decision made by Burt in the hope of making little girls realize at an early age that they can be anything they want to be when they grow up.
#1 Ariel as a pop star and record producer
Ariel took her passion for singing to the next level when she released her song Part of Your World as her debut single. The power ballad, which expresses Ariel’s strong desire to become human, became a huge hit, giving the Princess of Atlantica her first ever multi-platinum award. But her success in the music industry doesn’t stop there, as she now works as a producer at her own label, Seven Seas Records.
#2 Mulan as Title IX lawyer
The sexism she experienced during her time in the military-inspired Mulan to pursue law in college. After graduating summa cum laude, the former farm girl is now an advocate for equality on university campuses, making sure that all are given the same treatment and opportunities regardless of their sex, sexual orientation, gender, and gender identity.
#3 Belle as university chancellor
Belle’s love for books and an appetite for knowledge led her to enter the academy. After completing her doctorate in education, Belle strived for excellence and ultimately became the chancellor at a premier university. As the chief administrative officer of an educational institution, the bibliophile continues her advocacy for equal and free education for all.
#4 Rapunzel as a neurologist
The healing powers of her long golden blonde hair inspired Rapunzel to become a doctor. After escaping from the remote tower that locked her away from the world for 18 years, the Princess of Corona didn’t waste any time getting herself into a reputable medical school where she worked hard to earn her doctorate in Neurology. Now recognized as one of the leading specialists in neural care, Rapunzel works tirelessly to better the lives of her patients.
#5 Jasmine as United Nation ambassador
As a co-ruler of Agrabah, Jasmine has always stood up for what is right. She is not afraid to speak her mind when it comes to the welfare of her people. Equipped with that overflowing compassion towards her kingdom, Jasmine now advocates Agrabah at the United Nations. And having experienced sexism firsthand, one of her major initiatives is upholding women’s rights by making sure that every woman around the world is treated fairly.
#6 Cinderella as an animal rights activist
While working as a servant for her wicked stepmom and stepsisters, Cinderella found family in mice Jaq and Gus, her dog Bruno, and her horse Major. In more ways than one, her animal companions had helped her survived her difficult life back then, so to repay their kindness towards her, Cinderella used her influence as a princess to start a non-profit organization committed to promoting animal rights.
#7 Elsa and Anna as climate change scientists
Having been born and raised in the Norwegian kingdom of Arendelle, sisters Elsa and Anna are no strangers to the alarming global effects of climate change. So to help counter the Earth’s rising temperature, the royal siblings have decided to study everything about climate change to provide accurate and factual data that can be used to cool our home planet.
#8 Pocahontas as head of an environmental non-profit
Pocahontas’ love for nature has made her an active member of pro-environment circles. Fueled by her strong belief that everything in this world is interconnected, she now oversees a non-profit organization committed to preserving and protecting the environment. Through vigorous campaigning and inciting activism among people, Pocahontas fights for the preservation and sustainable use of our natural resources.
#9 Merida as two-time Olympian
Hailed as the best archer in the kingdom of DunBroch, Merida competed in the Olympics to represent her country. But in addition to showing off her superior bow and arrow skills, she also displayed her expertise in horseback riding, beating all her rivals. Though she has already won multiple gold medals, she aspires of earning more. In fact, she’s currently hard at work preparing for the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo.
#10 Aurora as CEO of a coffee company
After being awoken from her very long enchanted sleep, Aurora made it her career to help others stay awake. With her affluent resources as a princess combined with her inexhaustible patience and hard work, Aurora has successfully built a coffee empire. As the founder and CEO of Spinning Wheel Coffee, one of the leading coffee chains in the nation, Prince Philip’s wife promises to serve only the most premium quality coffee to its patrons.
Following her discovery that she was chosen by the ocean to restore the legendary heart of Te Fiti, Moana realized that she indeed belongs to the sea. Equipped with her sharp mind and headstrong attitude, the chief of Motunui joined the Navy where she unsurprisingly excelled. After standing out for her natural ability to lead, Moana rose to the rank of lieutenant commander with numerous awards and honors under her belt.
#12 Snow White as a psychologist
Snow White’s ability to effortlessly earn the trust of anyone around her has helped her become a successful psychologist. Her sympathetic attitude, non-judgmental personality, and rich experience in dealing with different kinds of people have made it easier for her patients to open up to her. This special skill has aided her to conduct several studies that advanced the field of mental health in the country. With significant contributions to this branch of medicine, Snow White has become an inspiration to her colleagues to give their best in their chosen profession.
#13 Tiana as chef and restaurateur
Tiana’s first love is cooking. Long before meeting her now husband Prince Naveen, Tiana was already dreaming of opening her own restaurant. In fact, in order to save up for her dream business, Tiana worked religiously as a waitress for two different establishments. After finally opening her own restaurant, the Princess of Maldonia rose to prominence and won the prestigious James Beard Award. Despite already scoring an Oscar of the food world, Tiana never stops from creating all-original dishes to bring comfort and joy to everyone’s taste buds.