HE is an international rugby star but in Nadi district in Bua, they adore him more for his altruism, and respect his humanity for championing causes that improve their lives.
There was nothing less than praise for Ratu Seru Raveive Rabeni (pictured) from his fellow villagers at Nasolo, Bua.
Their gratitude was not so much for bringing glory to his village on the world rugby stage but for his selfless contribution.
Every year since 2003, Tuseru, as they fondly call him, hosts a rugby tournament at the Nasolo Village ground to raise funds for their village projects.
He practically organises everything, from securing the prizes, footing the costs and other logistical matters.
The money raised has helped to renovate the village church, build the community hall and fence off their main rugby field so that their asset is maintained in good condition.
Last week, the Gloucester centre was back at his village organising another tournament, this time to raise funds for the completion of concrete walkways around the village and the construction of a library and computer room at Nadi District School.
The 30-year-old plans to furnish the library with books and computers through donations from England.
"Building the walkway is important because this is a rainy place and walking around in slush to the creek and around the village becomes not only difficult but a health risk for villagers," Rabeni reasoned.
As if that is not enough, he also outfits local rugby teams with uniforms, jerseys and balls.
Clan leader Aisake Sovakiwai said every villager was genuinely thankful to the the Lord for Rabeni's life.
"He has been a blessing in our lives with all the community work that he has organised.
"He is our hero, not just because he is well known in rugby but because of the way he has come back home and helped improve our lives."
Aside from village projects, Rabeni addressed transportation problems faced by villagers because of their isolation by acquiring a four-tonne truck to ease the problem.
Knowing that education is a way out of poverty, the former primary school teacher provides for 10 students from the village studying at tertiary level in Suva -- paying for bus fares, school fees and food.
"I don't have much, people think we are rich as rugby players but we don't have that much," he said.
"I care because this is my community, my families and I want to share my success with the community I grew up with.
"I grew up with the teaching that if I have it and someone needs it, I will give it."
Rabeni is also the biggest yaqona farmer in the district and employs young men from all over the province to work on his farm.
"I'm doing this to encourage them that they can also succeed outside the classroom and even off the rugby field."
