George Johnson

George is a seasoned advocate for social change, combining decades of hands-on craftsmanship with a deep commitment to empowering children in underserved communities. With over 40 years of experience as a carpenter, general contractor, and boat captain, George channels his expertise into building sustainable solutions for education and community development in Fiji, Vanuatu, and Hawaii.

In 2017, George founded Islestyle Inc. as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit to address the critical lack of resources in preschools across the South Pacific. Driven by the belief that education is a cornerstone for breaking the cycle of poverty, he spearheads projects that range from constructing safe outdoor learning spaces to delivering essential supplies and tools to remote villages.


Key Contributions:

  • Infrastructure Development: Led the construction of preschool classrooms, solar lighting installations, and cyclone-resistant facilities in Fiji and Vanuatu.

  • Community Empowerment: Partnered with local leaders like Stephen, a tailor in Vanuatu, to provide industrial-grade tools (e.g., the Sailrite sewing machine) that boost economic opportunities.

  • Resource Mobilization: Organized fundraisers and supply drives, collecting over 100 pounds of school materials and raising $100,000+ to support ongoing projects.

  • Volunteer Leadership: Volunteers extensively on the ground, working directly with teachers and villagers to ensure projects align with community needs.

George’s vision for Islestyle is rooted in sustainability and collaboration. By focusing on long-term solutions—such as maintenance-free play equipment and locally managed initiatives—he ensures that every project leaves a lasting impact for generations of children.