An Interview with Bernadette Okwu-Gage

I am a lifelong learner and very passionate about education. However, growing up in Nigeria opened my eyes to issues of gender inequities around me. It was a common challenge encountered in different facets of the society, even in education. So, I chose to write this novel to add my voice to especially the issue of girls’ education. My hope is that the story will inspire people to take action personally and also help to garner more support for girls’ education around the globe.

Regarding my education, years ago, I earned a medical degree from the University of Jos in Nigeria, then I moved to the US and completed a master’s degree from George Washington University and a PhD from the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee. More recently, I completed a certificate in media and medicine from Harvard University and now I am part of a year-long cohort undertaking a business leadership program at Stanford University. Presently, I live in the United States and lead a new organization called Grit & Spunk Impact Lab. When not working, I enjoy watching comedies and traveling with my husband.

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Tell us the story of your book’s title. Was it easy to find, or did it take forever?

I started writing A Beautiful Sunrise many years ago. I took breaks because of school and work. The initial title I had picked out was A New Sunrise. During the writing process, I would occasionally do title searches to make sure the title has not been taken but I discovered that title was taken at some point. So, I finally, locked in this title, but I did not finish and publish as I had anticipated, so now I am aware of a similar title. But I am still happy because the title ties into the message of the story well, so I wouldn’t think of changing it.

How did it feel when you first saw your book cover? Or when you first held your book in your hands?

I was excited! It took a while and several rounds of editing to get it to publication. It was a lot of work, as I combined writing with going to school and working. However, I was happy to put in the work because A Beautiful Sunrise conveyed a message of inspiration and hope.

Who/what made you want to write? Was there a particular person, or particular writers/works/art forms that influenced you?

The main inspiration for A Beautiful Sunrise is my mum. I am truly fortunate to have been raised by a strong and hardworking mother. She has successfully raised her children with strength and purpose. She also taught many young people through the years while working as an educator. Her work helped to change the trajectory of many young lives in Nigeria and in the US.

I am also surrounded by many women who have inspired and helped to shape my journey — my sisters, aunt, friends, and late grandma.

Professionally, my work in health care allowed me to work with women and children. This helped me develop a strong passion for issues affecting this population. In addition, I was privileged to pursue graduate degrees in the US that allowed me to delve further into socio-cultural and health challenges of women and girls. So, this reinforced to me that education was not only a factor in future careers but a strong determinant of health. Sadly, millions of girls are still out of school across the globe. So, I read a few of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s books and I was inspired as I love her work and the authentic way she told stories.

What other professions have you worked in? What’s something about you that your readers wouldn’t know?

I trained as a health care professional and worked as a doctor in Nigeria before moving to the US to pursue graduate degrees in public health. I also had the opportunity to complete a media and medicine course at Harvard University, and I am now part of a business leadership cohort at Stanford University. Lastly, I just started a social impact consulting organization called Grit & Spunk Impact Lab, where we also focus on girls’ education and women’s empowerment.

What was the most rewarding/meaningful part of publishing your book?

Getting feedback back from family and friends that my book was well written and inspiring!

If your book had a soundtrack, what are some songs that would be on it?

i. Tauren Wells — Hills and Valleys

ii. Andra Day — Rise Up

ii. Teddy Pendergrass — Glad To Be Alive

What is one thing you hope readers take away from reading your book? How do you envision your perfect reader?

I want families to commit to fighting relentlessly for opportunities for all their children regardless of gender. Additionally, I want young girls and women to embrace making tougher choices and pursue their goals, so everyone achieves their full potential. Lastly, I enjoin leaders to push for more support for girls’ education and women’s empowerment.

What creative projects are you currently working on?

I reconnected with crocheting and I have made a couple of lovely tops and sweaters!

How was working with Atmosphere Press? What would you tell other writers who want to publish?

I had a great experience working with Atmosphere Press and I will encourage other authors to come on board.

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