'Giving back': Tongan builders upskilling the community

Eight Tongan brothers are harnessing their collective horsepower to strengthen the building trade for their community.

Building Brothers Construction is run by three Tuipulotu brothers, Mapa, George and Fou, who all started off as labourers.

After completing their building qualifications, they brought in the remaining five brothers to the family trade.

A younger brother and manager, Koli Tuipulotu spoke with PMN Tonga, alongside his his brother Danny.

Koli says part of their goal is to help other young labourers further their skills.

“It’s been six years now of operating and trying to help out the community. Trying to help workers out to get work as well and then give back. Giving back is the main (focus).”

Building Brothers Construction covers a wide range of projects from new builds to residential renovations as well as offering a dedicated job-seeking and upskilling sector.

It all started with the youngest Tuipulotu brother, Fou, who had been learning trade skills from his father since he was 10 years old, and in 2017 he built his company from the ground up.

Koli says once Fou paved the way, the rest of the brothers joined in and a family legacy was born.

“He got the opportunity to create something beautiful for the family. We all jumped along to help out, push it, and try and get it further and make sure that everyone knows we’re all about helping out everyone in the community.

“We all have different backgrounds but I think coming together and standing together is the most important bit. It helped us a lot throughout this journey.”

Watch the full interview with Koli and Danny Tuipulotu on PMN Tonga below.