FOR many young Fijians watching or listening at home during last weekend’s Singapore 7s, history was being made in more ways than one.
As the world’s best rugby sevens players lit up the field, two Fijian voices were breaking new ground on the global stage.
World Rugby SVNS commentator Satish Narain and former Wallaroos forward Sera Naiqama co-commentated Fiji’s final pool match against South Africa. Narain then called his first-ever series semi-final, featuring the Boks 7s against France.
Reflecting on the milestone, Narain said: “Two Fijians on the global stage — never been done before. To be the first with Sera and do something like that was like gold.”
It was a landmark not just for commentary, but for representation — proof that Fijians belong in every corner of the global game.
Narain acknowledged those who paved the way. “I’m grateful for all the opportunities that came my way. I’d like to thank Karl Te Nana, associate producer for World Rugby, for opening the doors for Fijians.”
He recalled Te Nana’s words: “Fiji has done a lot in 7s on the world stage. If I can open the doors and bring people into the commentary box who can talk about Fiji better than anyone else, then I’ve done my bit.”
At the heart of Narain’s message is the next generation.
“I hope what Sera and I have done here inspires the young children at home, watching or listening, because that is what we want.”
He added a message familiar to the Pacific Islands: “We want our children to dream big. We want them to fight hard. In the Pacific, nothing is given on a silver platter — you must fight hard, and only then will you be recognised.”
For young Fijians, the takeaway is clear: your voice matters, your dreams are valid, and with hard work, the global stage can one day feel like home.
