IAM Tongi
IAM
We interviewed IAM Tongi at Turtle Bay Resort in Kahuku on October 17, 2023.
IAM discussed with Journalist Brenton Awa how he is using his platform to encourage young Polynesians to step out and show their talents.
Uncle Manatau Tuifua
Uncle Manatau Tuifua is IAM's mother's younger brother.
Manatau took IAM to his first American Idol audition in New Orleans. He is currently traveling with his nephew on his American Idol Tour.
Cameraman Elyjah Hoapili-Kreutz with Manatau Tuifua.
CJ Falevai-Kindness
CJ
IAM Tongi's best friend CJ Falevai-Kindness was interviewed by Executive Producer Tanoai Reed on September 30, 2023 at Laie Point. IAM and CJ's friendship began at Kahuku Elementary School.
Kahuku Scenes
Coastline
Cinematographer Bradina Anae took some nature shots
around Kahuku on October 20, 2023.
Kahuku Neighborhood
This is the street where Iam Tongi's family lived,
on Pahelehala Loop, known as "p-loop."
Kahuku, Laie, Hauula
IAM Tongi was born at Kahuku hospital.
He attended Kahuku Elementary and Kahuku High and Intermediate School.
Laie was a center of activity for IAM Tongi.
His family attended church at the Mormon Temple, his parents were students at BYU, and some family members worked at the Polynesian Cultural Center.
The Tongi family also lived in Hauula.
First paid gig was at Mike's Huli Chicken restaurant.