For a decade, Awful Grace has walked a restorative path guided by the Japanese philosophy of Wabi-sabi – the quiet wisdom that finds profound beauty in imperfection, impermanence, and the honest marks of a life lived.
We have moved beyond the transactional “fix-it” model. Our work is person-centred, beginning not with a diagnosis but with a story. We meet each individual in the unique texture of their own journey, honouring the scars of the past not as flaws to be hidden, but as the very kintsugi seams that can make a life more resilient, more intricate, and more valued.
Guided by restorative principles, we understand that true healing is not a straight line to a pre-determined “perfect” state, but a patient, organic process of repair and re-integration. The focus is not on erasing history, but on integrating its lessons with grace and accountability, transforming fractured narratives into sources of strength for both the individual and the community.
Our fundamental measure is impact—not in numbers alone, but in the depth of change. We seek the impact visible in a newfound voice expressed through haiku, in the steadiness of a reclaimed future, and in the healing of relational fabric. This is the impact of Awful Grace: the powerful, often difficult beauty that emerges when we have the courage to see brokenness not as an end, but as a beginning.
We believe in the power of transformation. We know that every person has the potential to heal, rebuild, and make a meaningful contribution to society. Through restorative practices and person-centred engagement, we walk alongside those who are rebuilding their place in society, empowering them to embrace second chances and find renewed hope. Our work extends beyond changing lives—it’s about creating a society where every person is valued, healing is possible, and the past does not define a person’s future. We build a compassionate and just community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
We are honoured that the person-centred nature of our work, and the incredible resilience of the people we journey with, has been highlighted on Channel News Asia’s Extraordinary People. What undergirds our programme, “The Journey,” is the foundation in restorative practices which celebrates the belief that transformation begins with recognising the individual’s inherent worth and empowering them to find their own journey. The stories shared remind us that our true impact lies in fostering the innate power of individual resilience to overcome adversity.
Restorative Practices for Rehabilitation and Reintegration
True rehabilitation starts with restorative practices that prioritise healing over punishment and relationships over isolation. A justice system focused only on retribution overlooks the potential for transformation in every individual. Restorative practices recognise that harm impacts not just the victim but also offenders, their families, and the community. Effective rehabilitation is a collective effort, where repair, accountability, and growth replace stigma and retribution.
Rehabilitation is about restoring dignity. When individuals are given the chance to take responsibility meaningfully, they can heal, make amends, and rebuild their lives. Reintegration should be an active process, not just release—helping returning citizens re-enter society with the support and relationships they need to thrive.
At Awful Grace, we champion restorative practices through our institution programme “The Journey,” which promotes personal growth and reconciliation. In our community programme – “The Journey Continues” (TJC), we extend support beyond residential facilities, helping returning citizens find belonging in a community that embraces second chances.
A society that values restorative rehabilitation understands that no one is defined by their worst mistake. It reflects our shared humanity—offering justice that is rooted in compassion, accountability, and hope. Awful Grace is committed to this vision, advocating for a justice system that serves both the present and future of individuals, families, and communities.
Vision
A compassionate society where everyone has the opportunity to heal, reintegrate and transform with dignity.
Mission
Awful Grace empowers incarcerated individuals, at-risk youths, and returning citizens to rebuild their lives through restorative justice, creative expression, and community support, fostering healing, accountability and reintegration.
