HUMANS OF THE ISLANDS - JAYE TUIAKI
JAYE TUIAKI
SAMOAN
MUSICIAN
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Can you introduce yourself - where you’re from, your cultural background, and a bit about how you were raised?
My name is Jaye Tuiaki. I’m a 22-year-old up-and-coming artist, born and raised in South Auckland, currently based in Papakura. I’m of Tongan and Cook Islands descent and the youngest of six. I was raised in the LDS church, and growing up in a musical family meant I was constantly surrounded by singing and faith. Church was a big part of our lives, and some of my earliest memories are singing together with my family.
What was life like growing up in South Auckland, and how did that environment shape you as a person and as an artist?
Growing up in South Auckland meant I was constantly surrounded by talent - not just in music, but across all forms of creativity. Being raised around other Polynesians who were expressing themselves through their art inspired me to find my own voice, which naturally became music, given my background. South Auckland isn’t always portrayed in the best light, so that’s also motivated me to use my music to share messages of hope, resilience, and pride - telling honest stories of our realities and challenges.
How did your music journey begin? Was there a defining moment when you knew this was the path for you?
Music began at home for me. With such a musical family and being involved in church, music was always around. During school, I took every opportunity to explore it further - getting involved in events like Rockquest, Tangata Beats, and Stand Up Stand Out. It was during my senior years of high school, performing on stage, that I realised how passionate I was about music. That was the moment I knew it was what I wanted to pursue seriously.
Your debut single ‘Show Me The Way’ carries a lot of heart - what inspired the track, and what does it mean to you personally?
‘Show Me The Way’ came from personal experience - facing challenges both as a missionary and just as a young adult trying to find my path. It’s a song of gratitude to God and Christ for always being there through the hard times. Often when life gets tough, we tend to focus on the negatives, but this song is my way of highlighting the blessings that come from those struggles. For me, it’s a reminder that God has a plan for each of us, and this track is my way of saying thank you - and expressing my willingness to follow wherever He leads.
You’ve spoken openly about your faith - how has that helped you navigate tough moments, especially while being away from your whānau?
Having been raised in the church and holding onto my faith has helped me stay hopeful through life. Especially during those times away from home, my belief in God gave me confidence - not just that I would be watched over, but that my whānau would be too. For me, the joy we feel doesn’t depend on our circumstances, but on where our focus lies. Keeping my focus on God helps me navigate through whatever life brings.
The song was born from your time as a missionary - can you tell us more about that season and how it shaped your writing?
I served as a missionary for two years, and it was a life-changing time. I left home at 19, which was my first time being truly independent. That season came with its own set of trials and lessons - emotional, spiritual, and mental. Those experiences shaped who I am and deeply influenced my songwriting. Being a young Polynesian out in the world, sharing my beliefs and facing new challenges, gave me insight that I now carry into my music. I want to share those lessons and messages of hope with others.
You’ve been described as having a sound “born in the church” and shaped by your culture. How do your church roots and Pacific identity show up in your music?
Growing up in church, my sound naturally leans toward soulful and heartfelt melodies. That softness and emotion you hear is rooted in my upbringing. As Polynesians, we’re also powerful storytellers -it's in our blood. Through my music, I aim to share my journey and honour our way of storytelling. I want people to feel something when they listen, to connect with that authenticity.
What message do you hope your music gives to other young people, especially those in the Pacific community who might be going through tough times?
I hope my music spreads positivity - whether it’s through the lyrics or just the overall vibe. I want to help people shift their focus onto the blessings they have and remind them that even in darkness, there's always light. My hope is that my songs make people smile and feel uplifted, and to remember that we have a loving God who has blessed us in many ways - and will continue to.
And finally, what would you say to other young Pacific artists trying to find their voice and take that first step?
Take every opportunity that comes your way with gratitude, and really seize the moment. Hold onto your passion and don’t stop grinding. Every major setback is just setting you up for an even greater comeback. Stay grounded in your values, in your identity, and in who you are. That’s what makes your voice unique.
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