Sports play an important role in bringing our communities together.

In actual fact, it has gone beyond that, as it is now seen as an important tool towards community development. It is things like improvement of infrastructure, upgrade of educational and health facilities and providing employment opportunities to our young people.

However, it does not end there as in return our community has always been a source of inspiration to our budding sports people- not only here but overseas as well.

One such case was this week, when Fijian airline pilots flying for Emirates Airlines spearheaded a special function to welcome our Vodafone Fijians 7s and Telecom Fijiana 7s teams in Dubai.

Leading the charge was Sawaieke native from Gau, Captain Timoci Qaranivalu, who recently became one of the first Fijians to take command of the double deck Airbus A380 aircraft.

“Also joining in the organising of the welcome event was our wantok from Papua New Guinea Captain Tico Narara,” said Bula Gulf producer and renowned TV cameraman Gabby Abariga.

Captain Qaranivalu said the Fijian community in Dubai were closely monitoring the progress of our national 7s teams over the past few months.

“It was encouraging to witness the rapid developments they have made,” he said.

“We are honoured as Fijians to be able to have Ben Ryan and our national 7s teams as our special guests. It is our show of support as we hope for another victory like in 2013.

“But most importantly, is that our respective families and fellow Fijians here in Dubai want to reciprocate the contribution sports has made to our upbringing back home.”

Another Fijian pilot, Willie Foon said the idea of hosting our national 7s teams this time had certainly set the precedent as Dubai was the host city for the Emirates Dubai Rugby Sevens.

“For us it was only fitting that our national teams are welcomed in Dubai,” Foon said.

In true Fijian style, invitations were also extended to Henry Speight (playing for Australia), Virimi Vakatawa (France), Josefa Lilidamu (Japan), Lote Tuqiri (Japan), Mataiasi Leuta (USA) and Joseva Nayacavou (Scotland) and they were there in full force. Abariga said wives and families of the Fijian pilots had prepared the dinner for the night.

Vodafone Fijian 7s coach, Ben Ryan thanked Captain Qaranivalu and the Fijian community for the event.

“Let me say the support given by you all in Dubai has been overwhelming and I want to thank you all for that,” he said.