The Jonah Lomu Foundation exists to honour the life, values, and enduring legacy of Jonah Lomu by creating meaningful opportunities for young people and families to thrive — particularly through sport, health advocacy, and community empowerment.
Jonah was more than a global rugby icon; he was a symbol of humility, resilience, generosity, and hope. His journey — from rising to international prominence with the All Blacks to courageously facing significant health challenges — inspired millions around the world. The Foundation’s charitable purpose is grounded in those same qualities: strength in adversity, belief in potential, and a deep commitment to lifting others.
At its heart, the Jonah Lomu Foundation is dedicated to supporting youth development through access to sport and positive mentorship. We believe sport is a powerful vehicle for transformation. It builds discipline, confidence, teamwork, and leadership. Yet for many young people, financial hardship, limited access to resources, or lack of support systems create barriers to participation. Our mission is to remove those barriers by providing scholarships, equipment, development pathways, and structured opportunities that empower young athletes to pursue their goals — not only as competitors, but as well-rounded individuals.
In addition to youth sport development, the Foundation carries a strong commitment to health awareness and support initiatives. Jonah’s own health journey highlighted the importance of education, early intervention, and compassionate care. The Foundation seeks to partner with medical professionals, community organisations, and advocacy groups to raise awareness around serious health conditions, promote preventative health education, and assist families navigating similar challenges. Through this work, we aim to foster informed, resilient communities equipped with knowledge and support.
Community upliftment sits at the centre of everything we do. The Foundation is committed to serving communities across Aotearoa New Zealand and internationally where Jonah’s legacy continues to inspire. We prioritise inclusivity, cultural respect, and collaboration. By working alongside schools, clubs, local leaders, and charitable partners, we strive to create sustainable programmes that reflect the unique needs and strengths of each community we serve.
Integrity and legacy, stewardship, guidance and governance is what we hold close to the foundation of our beliefs. As Jonah's family - Nadene, Brayley and Dhyreille, as custodians of Jonah Lomu’s name, image and likeness in its entirety and knowing what truly matter most to Jonah, are wholeheartedly committed to ensuring that all initiatives under the Foundation reflect his values of generosity, humility, faith, and service. Every partnership, event, and programme is evaluated not only for impact, but for alignment with the spirit in which the Foundation was created.
Ultimately, the Jonah Lomu Foundation exists to transform inspiration into action. We aim to create pathways where young people can dream boldly, families can access meaningful support, and communities can unite around shared purpose. Through structured programmes, strategic partnerships, and charitable initiatives, we seek to ensure that Jonah’s legacy is not simply remembered — it is lived while enriching diversity within the community.
By investing in people, championing resilience, and building opportunity, The Jonah Lomu Foundation stands as a living testament to a man who inspired the world — and whose impact continues to empower the next generation and beyond. - The Lomu Family.
For information about The Jonah Lomu Foundation, see www.thejonahlomufoundation.com