Beyond the field: Nelson Stone’s NEST Program cultivates community spirit in Tokarara

While many spent Mother’s Day in quiet celebration, the communities of Tokarara, June Valley and Hohola were buzzing with a different kind of energy. Former National representative Nelson Stone was on the move, visiting mothers' groups across the suburb, delivering cakes, food, and soft drinks. But the day wasn't just about the treats but rather honoring the backbones of the nation.

Through the NEST Program’s sports and community initiative, Stone organized a day of fun and games, bringing families together for a day of collective joy.

"Mothers are the backbones of our families, communities, and society at large," Stone told NBC News. "Their love and passion can drive a man to be strong and lead well in his own capacity. Serving our mothers is about building unity and strength."

A standout feature of the Sunday event was the presence of local youths acting as marshals and officials. In a community like Tokarara, which is often unfairly labeled as notorious, the NEST Program provides a vital lifeline for young people who feel overlooked.

"Engaging our youths to run the program is a way of empowering them to learn responsibility, respect, and accountability," Stone said. "It makes them understand they are considered and not forgotten. Because of that, they provided a safe and secure event for everyone."

The Mother’s Day event is just one chapter in a story that began over ten years ago. Since 2013, the former 200m Pacific sprint king has served as the Director of the NEST Program, often funding initiatives out of his own pocket.

The program is built on three unwavering pillars: Respect, Discipline, and Fairness.

While the program is famous for its Rugby League pathway, producing talents like current SP Hunters stars Ila Alu, Murray Cornors, amongts others, as well as AFL PNG International Cup winner Andrew Lai, Stone insists the goal is bigger than sports.

"We aren't just looking to produce rugby league talent," Stone said. "We are looking to produce good people. Many of these youths come from broken or struggling families. By giving them leadership roles, they feel like they are 'somebody' in the community. They change mentally."

The NEST Program’s impact has recently expanded from the playing field to the very streets of Tokarara. Frustrated by deteriorating infrastructure and a lack of government intervention, Stone recently took matters into his own hands.

Using small fees collected from the program and donations from inspired individuals, the initiative hired graders and tractors last week to repair local roads that had been neglected for years.

"We brought in equipment to flatten the roads so vehicles and people can pass through again," Stone said. "We aren't bothered if government agencies or corporate companies don't reach out. Like Martin Luther King Jr. said, it’s about what you can do for your country rather than waiting for your country to do for you."

Despite the lack of formal partnerships, the Papua New Guinea athletics legend's resolve remains unshaken. Whether it’s fixing a road, coaching a future star, or honoring a mother on her special day, the mission remains the same: service.

"The NEST principle is: never ever stop trying," Stone said. "I’ve seen these mothers see me grow up, and now I see them growing old. To give back and see them happy is an amazing feeling. We put God first and we keep moving."

As the NEST Program enters its second decade, Stone looks forward to the future with a dream of eventually finding a major partner to scale his vision. But with or without a sponsor, the work in Tokarara will continue; one game, one road, and one community at a time.