Composer Dr. Nkeiru Okoye's music defies categorization. She is an expert at fuzing different musical styles and genres into her music, and injecting humanity into difficult subjects. Her mission is to create music that engages communities and affects social change. In part 1 of this 2-part episode, Dr. Okoye takes time out of her busy schedule to talk with Christine about her inspiring life story. From a shy little girl whose teacher tells her she'd never have a life in music, to becoming 2021's Guggenheim Fellow in music composition, composer Dr. Nkeiru Okoye's life story is a masterclass in grit, talent, and passion.