How Build Back Safer Training Supports the Next Generation in the Pacific

Paea first began attending Habitat’s Build Back Safer (BBS) trainings in Tonga to support her husband, who was leading the construction training. What started as time spent observing on site quickly turned into a chance to pick up practical skills she could use in her own home.

“When I come along, I learnt about building. The structure of it, the toilet, and septic,” says Paea.

Living in Australia with her children while her husband remains in Tonga, the hands-on skills she gained through Build Back Safer give her confidence to maintain and repair her home when issues pop up, and to pass that knowledge on.

“I can use [the skills] at home. Everything I can do without having to hire people or teach my children so they can do themselves.”

Paea has also developed a keen eye for how much the trainees learn during their time in the programme and what it means for their future, especially youth.

“I think it’s very important to have skills like these. It’s everyday life. If they didn’t learn it at school, they learn it now. They can carry it with them always, teach their own children, and help others that can’t help themselves.”

For Paea, the idea of home is deeply personal and rooted in family. The training reinforces what supports her children and the next generation: practical knowledge, confidence and the ability to care for themselves and others.

“My favourite part of my home is my children. They’re my favourite people.”

BBS training is carried out by Habitat partner organisations in Fiji, Samoa, and Tonga. In the past three years, 491 people have been trained in BBS. Together, we create skilled and resilient communities.