Canterbury Bulldogs five-eighth Moses Mbye has been nominated for the 2017 Ken Stephen Medal.
Moses has quickly grown to become not only one of the most exciting young players in the NRL but also a leading voice and ambassador in the Western Sydney community.
Focusing on programs and initiatives surrounding social harmony and mental health, Moses is a role model for many young people from diverse backgrounds. Through his African heritage, he promotes inclusiveness at local schools and major cultural events.
One example of this hard work behind the scenes is through being an Ambassador for Be All In, a social cohesion program developed by the Bulldogs in partnership with Western Sydney University.
Through the program, Moses engages with newly arrived migrants, including refugees, in high schools to help them adjust to Australian culture. He also celebrates African culture at the annual AfriCulture Festival at Lidcombe Oval, speaking proudly about his heritage and fulfilling a variety of roles on the day.
As an official NRL State of Mind Ambassador, Moses has courageously drawn on personal experiences to raise awareness of mental health issues and emphasise the importance of reducing the stigma within society. He has also worked closely with the Black Dog Institute to promote October's Mental Health month, committing his own time to star in promotional videos and stories.
The Ken Stephen Medal
Ken Stephen was an administrator who devoted 28 years to the NSWRL in various capacities. He retired shortly before his death in 1988. The Ken Stephen Medal recognises the efforts of an NRL player, who has not only achieved on the field, but has also committed time off the field to community projects.
A player is nominated by their NRL club for their involvement in charity work, youth development or community support. The nominated player will have consistently demonstrated their commitment to making a difference in their community and be seen as a role model in this area at their NRL club.
The NRL Community Awards recognise Rugby League's unsung heroes for the tireless work they do to support the game they love. From volunteers and teachers, to players at a first-grade level, the awards pause to honour, reflect and congratulate those who make a positive difference for many in their communities, week after week.
