Biography of Nickson Stevi Yikwa

Nickson Stevi Yikwa is the founder of Give Back Tools, a social enterprise established in 2025 in Papua, Indonesia.

Born in Wamena in 1995 and raised in Sentani, Nickson completed his primary education there before receiving a scholarship from the Papua Provincial Government in 2014 to continue his studies in New Zealand. He lived in New Zealand for nine years, pursuing pilot training while also learning practical skills such as carpentry, construction, and other trades. It was during this time that the "Give Back" vision was first born.

Upon returning to Papua at the end of 2022, Nickson joined Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF) Papua National Pilot Candidacy Program, while continuing online studies at George Fox University through Papua Hope Language Institute (PHLI). He then worked as a consultant at PHLI, including in re-entry mentoring programs and airstrip maintenance projects in remote Papua.

In 2025, while involved in one of these projects, Nickson crafted a strong tool handle from local iron wood at the request of a Canadian consultant. The quality and usefulness of the tool received high praise and sparked wider demand. After careful consideration and discussion with his wife, they finally established Give Back Tools. From humble beginnings, the business grew through word-of-mouth promotion, family and friends' support, and partnerships with local stores like Oriental Building Store, eventually reaching other stores and government agencies.

Through Give Back Tools, Nickson and his wife realize their mission to "Give Back" by providing employment, practical skills, and hope for Papua's younger generation. He envisions the business bringing sustainable impact — both practically and spiritually — for his team and the broader community.