Tattooed Mongrel Mob member Puk Kireka mocked by 50 Cent starts Givealittle to fund education

A Mongrel Mob member with a distinctive face tattoo is trying to raise money to go to university.

Puk Kireka, who has never had a job because he's been involved in gangs since he was a teenager, is trying to turn his life around.

The 31-year-old is a recognisable local figure thanks to the red-and-black 'NOTORIOUS' tattoo covering most of his face.

That same tattoo recently attracted the mockery of US rapper 50 Cent, who posted a screenshot of an article about Kireka to his Instagram account.

"What the f**k is really going on man. I wonder why he can’t get a job," the musician wrote to his 23 million followers.

Kireka told Hawke's Bay Today he's aware his tattoo will make it hard for him to find employment, but he's determined to improve his situation after losing 31kg in an intensive fitness regime.  

His partner Waiora Tareha has this week set up a Givealittle page called 'Help get Puk Kireka a job'.

"Help Puk on his path to his dream job by supporting him with his education, course and study fees," the page reads.

Kireka is about to start studying at Gisborne's Eastern Institute of Technology (EIT) with the goal of pursuing a career as a personal trainer.

"As his partner I would like to help him in any way I can," Tareha wrote.

All money raised will go toward Kareka's course fees. He intends to complete a Certificate, Diploma and Bachelor's degree before working in the fitness industry.

So far the Givealittle page has raised $70.

Newshub.