Report to the community:

What a night had by all!

The Fiji High Commission in collaboration with the London Community and 8th Man, hosted the 1st part to a 2 event fundraiser last night at St. Phillips, Earls Court. The event ran from 8pm - 11:30pm.

Welcoming roughly about 120 guests. We raised; from running katis, raffles, 1 auction and gunu sede an estimate of £1,410.00.

We thank the rugby community namely, Sekonaia Kalou (Fiji player and Secretary - London Community), Netani Talei (former Fiji & Harlequins player), Semi Kunatani (Fiji Olympian & Harlequins player) and Philip Cokanasiga (England under 18 player) for their presence which boosted the evening. Thank you to all the players who donated signed merchandise for auction.

Fiji Store, Jon Kama for the donation of 2 boxes of Fiji beer. Jon has always supported us 4 years running now and we’re very grateful.

We acknowledge and thank Jemesa Taletawa and members of the Half Mast Band, William Frederick of VmE for the live and colourful entertainment.

A big vinaka valalevu to the RKS-Old Boys London Region President, Nacanieli Vakarau for running the raffles, auction and katis

Most, we would like to thank those behind the scenes, Paulini Cakacaka (First Secretary - FHC), Mr Akuila Cakacaka, Florieann Wilson (Second Secretary - FHC), Joe Raitamata, Maca Turagabeci (Executive - FHC), Koini Cokanasiga (Member - London Community) Misi Cokanasiga, Frances Waqavonovono and Sam Hamilton-Peach. Without an organised logistics team, an event wouldn’t be as successful.

The food was prepared by the lovely Uttra Singh known to the community as Aunty Uttra. We were spoilt with the most delicious spicy curries.

Last but not least, thank you to members of the community who turned up in numbers from as far as Blackpool. We appreciate your support and in the spirit of giving, a BIG VINAKA VAKALEVU!

We look forward to welcoming you all to the next event, 26 April. Thank you for being part of the process.

Vinaka

Lorraine Raiwalui Suka

Director - 8th Man

Photo credits: Sekonaia Kalou, Akanisi Duru & David Borrow (8th Man Media & PR)