Veteran playmaker Kieran Foran has been acknowledged for his inspirational advocacy for mental health and extreme dedication to the community, announced as the Titans' nominee for the Ken Stephens Medal in 2025.
Across his 17 seasons in the NRL - especially since joining the Gold Coast - the 308-game star's commitment to community support and charitable causes extends well beyond his regular duties as a Titans player.
Known for his leadership both on and off the field, he has consistently gone above and beyond to make a tangible difference in people’s lives, often initiating or supporting efforts in his personal time.
VOTE FOR FORAN IN THE 2025 KEN STEPHEN MEDAL
His dedication to the community has been most prominent with his continued work with men's mental health following the tragic passing of his stepson Logan Steinwede to suicide in 2023 - partnering with Top Blokes Foundation to help focus on youth mental health and early intervention for young men.
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Foran nominated for 2025 Ken Stephen Medal
Foran has played a hands-on role in fundraising efforts, including driving the Titans’ dedicated Logan’s Legacy match last year which raised over $40,000.
His work with Top Blokes has occurred outside of his role with the Titans and his public vulnerability in sharing his own struggles with addiction, grief, and mental health across his career has helped destigmatise these issues and create honest conversations across both public forums and within the club.
In extension to his tireless work with young men's mental health, Foran has built strong connections with the Gold Coast Hospital Foundation - personally visiting young patients who are battling serious illnesses in his own time to offer them and their families moments of joy and inclusion; and has also played a central role in honouring fallen soldier Corporal Cameron Baird VC MG through fostering the Titans’ strong relationship with Cameron’s father, Doug Baird.
Kieran’s leadership shines in his support for the club's Leagueability program, which supports athletes with disabilities. Following the tragic passing of player Hudson Wicks earlier this year, he guided the team through their grief, reinforcing their place within the Titans community and exemplifying compassion and strength.
All of this was done by Kieran off his own bat, with no prompting from the club.
VOTE FOR FORAN IN THE 2025 KEN STEPHEN MEDAL
He has also used his achievements with the New Zealand Kiwis to support others, donating signed gear from the 2023 Pacific Championships win to raise funds for a family dealing with childhood cancer. This gesture is just one example of how he continuously turns personal triumphs into support for those in need.
Kieran regularly donates signed memorabilia and personal items to community raffles and causes, often without public acknowledgment. Whether mentoring teammates, supporting local families, or raising funds for vital programs, Kieran Foran consistently uses his platform to uplift others - quietly, authentically, and with lasting impact.
"I just feel so empowered when I'm able to have an impact on other people's lives and having played footy for so long, we tend to inspire young kids with our rugby league talent... but it's become much deeper for me now," he said.
"It's about trying to inspire people through life, not just on the footy field but actually help them get through the next phase of their journey because a lot of people have helped me along the way.
"When times were really difficult and I didn't see a way out in the years that were dark for me, community is what got me through it - family, friends and those around me who shed light on being able to push through what I was going through.
"It's extremely humbling to be nominated and I'm inspired by hearing other people's stories and journeys as well.
"I've realised everyone has a story and the more we can share that with those around us, the more we can empower those around us and help battle through their own journeys and ultimately help save lives."
