From word on the street, Kehinde Adelaja Okoroafor is a ‘made-in-heaven’ champion of widows’ cause, a woman of remarkable and compassionate heart by nature whose innate heart desire is to see all widows transform from beggars to givers.
Born in the vibrant city of Ibadan, Oyo State, to the late Surveyor Ayodele Adelaja and Mrs. Funke Adelaja, Kehinde’s passion for the transformation of the lives of Nigerian widows sets precedence for other NGOs. She is the founder of Make Me Elegant Foundation and the CEO of Next Level Hair Manufacturers, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to making a difference.
From a very young age, Kehinde’s love for giving and helping others has been her driving force, leading her to initiate a free empowerment program, focusing on vocational skills training for women and youth. Despite facing challenges and setbacks, Kehinde remained steadfast in her mission to uplift those in need.
However, the turning point came when Kehinde decided to celebrate her birthday in a unique way by hosting young widows. This encounter opened her eyes to the plight of young widows in society and inspired her to start the ‘Young Widows Mite’ initiative under the Make Me Elegant Foundation.
Unlike traditional approaches that focus on handouts, Kehinde’s approach is different. She believes in empowering widows to become self-sufficient and independent. Through training and support, she equips them with the skills and resources needed to start their own businesses and earn a livelihood.
Kehinde’s philosophy is simple yet profound: widows should not be viewed as beggars but as capable individuals who can contribute meaningfully to society. She encourages widows to stand on their feet, work hard, and become givers themselves. This empowerment not only transforms the lives of widows but also impacts their children, creating a ripple effect of positivity and self-reliance.
Despite the challenges and misconceptions that widows face, Kehinde remains undeterred in her mission. She travels to different states, listening to their stories and providing support where needed. Her work goes beyond charity; it is about restoring dignity, hope, and resilience to widows who have faced unimaginable hardships.
As Kehinde continues to make a difference in the lives of widows, her message is clear: widows are not victims but victors, capable of overcoming adversity and thriving. Through her foundation, she is changing the narrative surrounding widows and inspiring others to join her in creating a more inclusive and compassionate society.
- Tags: humanitarian, kehinde adelaja okoroafor, NGO, widow
