11 Sep 2020

Language connection unites Tongan, African refugee family

From First Up, 5:51 am on 11 September 2020

As we celebrate Tongan language week this week, we share the story of the unique connection between one Tongan family and a family of African refugees, living at the top of the Northern Territory in Australia - who decided to teach each other their own native languages. The theme for this year's Tongan Language is focused on prayer and faith - a fitting theme for 'Aisea Moala, a Tongan church Minister, and Samson Kiribata, an African Church Minister - both of whom became friends after meeting unexpectedly on a bush farm. Their brotherhood, as they call it, has now inspired others in their local community to step out and embrace other cultures. They shared their story with Indira Stewart.