Shiwani Chandra wants a perfect birthday gift for her best 7s rugby player Sevuloni Mocenacagi.

And last week the Gandhi Bhawan Primary School administrative officer presented the Nukuilau, Navosa native a painting of himself during his 30th birthday.

Chandra said Mocenacagi held a special place in her heart.

Mocenacagi and his two brothers Kavekini Tabu and Isoa Tabu played in the World Sevens Series and are members of Fiji Airways Fijian 7s head coach Gareth Baber extended squad.

“I started off as a fan, friend and family now.

“Actually Sevu’s family (Nene, Bau, Isoa and Kavekini) and myself planned to throw a mini party for Sevu’s 30th,” she said.

“They are the pride of our nation and it’s always a privilege to socialise with them.”

Chandra said Mocenacagi was grateful with the gift.

“He was delighted, I mean, who wouldn’t love a painting of himself and he was caught by surprise,” she said.

“I guess we were successful in making his 30th a special one. We created everything according to his likes. The cake was Y-shaped symbolising his love for Yamacia Rugby Club and his famous Y-sign he does after scoring a try.

“I’ve always wanted to give Sevu a drawing of himself.

“He is my best, but my favourite player is Waisea Nacuqu and it was great to have him there as well.

“Sevu is a humble player and most fans would agree with me. Getting to know Sevu and his family is quite special and they are a very special part of my life now.”

Chandra requested Viliame Tuilaucala, owner of 2inonedesigns in Tavua to do the painting.

“She sent me the picture and it took me three mornings from 8am to 10am to complete the job,”Tuilaucala said.

“Friends and rugby fans here and abroad want to buy it because Sevu is famous.It is one of the beautiful pictures that I have ever drawn.”

Tuilaucala is a graphic design lecturer at the Fiji National University.

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