In what ways was the concept of identity shown in the novel “The Whale Rider”?

The story is all about how the Maori people will hold on to their tradition while navigating the strange tides of modern times. All of the main characters are impacted by the dynamic between tradition and modernity. Kahu finds herself trapped by traditional gender roles; Koro feels alien in the changing world and struggles to find someone to carry on the Maori banner; Rawiri faces the choice of maintaining his cultural identity or travelling to the big city and just falling into the crowd. Kahu is the chief protagonist of the story. She seeks her own identity past gender roles and expectations. Her deepest wish is to please her great-grandfather, Koro--a struggle which spans the length of the book--and she remains dedicated to her Maori heritage and culture.