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Sia Soliola signs and distributes mini footballs to young Raiders fans at a recent home game.

Canberra Raiders forward Sia Soliola has been nominated for the 2019 Ken Stephen Medal for his ongoing support within the Canberra community.

“This game has provided me with a lot of good things, and a lot of joy, but what good is it if you’re not sharing that joy,” said Soliola.

Throughout the past year, Soliola has donated his time and money to helping the local community and giving back to a place he adores.

“Seeing people happy is a nice enough award for me,” said Soliola. “It’s all about giving back for the love of the community because that’s what they do for us as well.”

Late last year, Soliola raised $50,000 for Kulture Break’s charity, and in doing so shaved off his luscious mop in the process.

Sia Soliola after shaving his hair for charity.
Sia Soliola after shaving his hair for charity.
Sia Soliola before shaving off his hair which raised $50,000 for Kulture Break.
Sia Soliola before shaving off his hair which raised $50,000 for Kulture Break.

Soliola has also donated his time to the Vinnies CEO Sleepout, raising $11,000 for Vinnies over the past two years, as well as being an ambassador for Cure Angelman Syndrome and Menslink.

On top of his Raiders’ training, Soliola heads in every Monday morning, week-in week-out, to help feed the homeless at one of Canberra’s local churches.

However, the 2015 Meninga Medallist doesn’t do it for himself, yet more-so thinks about the opportunities he is helping provide by donating his time and money.

Sia Soliola takes part in the Vinnies CEO Sleepout.
Sia Soliola takes part in the Vinnies CEO Sleepout.

“I’d like to be that role model, that if I was in their position I would really appreciate that, and that’s how I go about things,” said Soliola.

Fan voting is currently open on the NRL’s community page on NRL.com and closes on Monday 19th August.

For more information about the Ken Stephens Medal, and to vote for Sia Soliola, click here.

Acknowledgement of Country

Canberra Raiders respect and honour the Traditional Custodians of the land and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and future. We acknowledge the stories, traditions and living cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples on the lands we meet, gather and play on.