Restored by Grace Launches 2026 Expansion with “Beauty for Ashes” Lagos

Non-profit organisation Restored by Grace (RBG) has announced plans to expand its support programmes in 2026, beginning with the fifth edition of its flagship empowerment initiative, Beauty for Ashes Lagos, scheduled for July 17, 2026.

According to the organisation, the expansion aims to extend its programmes to an additional 5,000 widows, widowers and single parents through emotional support, financial literacy training, coaching and peer-support initiatives.

The announcement comes amid continuing economic challenges affecting many households. Data from Nigeria’s National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) indicates that unemployment remains a significant concern, while UN Women estimates that Nigeria has approximately 15 million widows, with relatively few having access to structured support services.

Founded in 2017 by grief specialist and social impact advocate Oluseyi Oshewa-Oyedeji, Restored by Grace says it has supported more than 3,200 widows, widowers and single parents across Nigeria, the United Kingdom and diaspora communities through its various programmes.

Speaking about the organisation’s plans, Oshewa-Oyedeji said the expansion was informed by the growing need for structured support for individuals navigating bereavement and major life transitions.

“The loss almost ended my story. Instead, it redirected it,” she said. “Beauty for Ashes exists because people do not need pity; they need a path. Through our BEMORE framework, we are providing practical tools that help people rebuild their lives with confidence, purpose and dignity.”

According to the organisation, the 2026 programme will place greater emphasis on emotional healing, identity restoration and economic empowerment, while introducing additional digital learning opportunities for participants.

The Lagos event will be the first of three major programmes planned for 2026. Activities are expected to include coaching sessions, workshops focused on personal development and financial wellbeing, and networking opportunities for participants.

Restored by Grace also plans to introduce an updated digital version of its BEMORE curriculum later in the year to expand access to its coaching resources beyond physical events.

Oshewa-Oyedeji said the organisation hopes the expanded programme will reach more individuals affected by loss and provide practical support to help them rebuild their lives.

“Grief changes you, but it does not have to define you,” she said. “Our goal this year is to help 5,000 more people move from survival to significance. We want those who have experienced loss to see that restoration is possible and that a meaningful future can still be built.”

The organisation said the Lagos programme is expected to bring together widows, widowers, single parents, caregivers and advocates working to support individuals affected by bereavement.

Since its establishment, Restored by Grace has implemented initiatives including the BEMORE coaching programme, the annual RBG Concert UK, the Inspiring Young Widows/Widowers outreach and the Beauty for Ashes empowerment series.

The organisation says its programmes focus on providing emotional support, community engagement and practical empowerment for people rebuilding their lives after loss.