Still Becoming: Grace's Journey to Safety and Hope

Grace's name has been changed to protect her privacy.

Some stories begin with loss, but they don't have to end there. Grace's journey reminds us that even in the darkest moments, hope can take root and grow into something beautiful.

We met Grace through a community outreach in 2021—one of the sessions we hold with parents in communities where our students live. These gatherings help us share the importance of education and encourage caregivers to create space and support for their children to learn, even amidst economic hardship.

The Early Connection

At one such meeting, a woman bravely spoke up about her struggles. She was Grace's mother. Life had pushed her into survival choices no one should have to make—engaging in sex work to support her children. You could hear the weariness in her voice, but also a quiet longing for a better path. We offered encouragement and reminded her that hope was still possible.

This mother's courage to speak up in that community meeting showed her deep love for her children, even as she navigated impossible circumstances. Her vulnerability opened a door for LOTSI to begin supporting the family, particularly Grace's education.

Sadly, she passed away later that year, leaving Grace and her siblings to navigate an uncertain future without their primary caregiver.

Seeking Safety, Finding Challenge

After her mother's passing, LOTSI began supporting Grace with her school fees. She was taken to Warri to live with her grandmother, and we believed she was finally in a safe place. But the news that followed was devastating.

Grace returned to Lagos having endured further trauma. At just 14 years old—though she looks older—she had been exposed to abuse, exploitation, and a stolen sense of childhood. She initially stayed with her older sister, who already had her own young children and was struggling to manage another dependent in the home.

The challenges Grace faced highlight the vulnerability that many young people experience when traditional support systems break down. Despite the setbacks, her resilience and determination to continue her education remained strong.

LOTSI's Intervention

Knowing Grace needed stability, safety, and structure, we arranged for her to begin boarding school at the end of 2024 for the 2024/2025 session—a place where she could focus on her education and begin to heal.

Our team worked carefully to identify the right placement for Grace, understanding that she needed more than just educational support. She needed a safe environment where she could process her experiences and rebuild her sense of security.

The process of finding appropriate placement required coordination with Lagos State Government facilities and careful attention to Grace's specific needs as a trauma survivor.

Current Status and Hope

Today, Grace lives in the Idi-Araba Girls' Home, run by the Lagos State Government. There, she has access to continued education, emotional and psychological support, and a sense of family among other girls who are also finding their way.

Grace's artistic talents are beginning to shine in this supportive environment. She's not just surviving—she's discovering who she's meant to become. The structure and safety of the girls' home provide the foundation she needs to heal while pursuing her education.

Alongside Grace, we've also been able to support three other girls from our program into the same home, offering them a renewed chance at life and learning. This creates a network of support where the girls can encourage each other through their shared journey of growth and recovery.

We believe Grace's story is still unfolding—and that it will one day become a story of beauty and inspiration, not just for her, but for many others who've faced similar pain. Her resilience, creativity, and determination to continue learning despite everything she's experienced show the incredible strength that lives within her.

Grace is still becoming who she's meant to be, and we're honored to be part of that journey.