Christen Dukes, the founder of Arts Over Odds Foundation, is an Overcomer, having been born prematurely with Sickle Cell Disease and Cerebral Palsy. Despite being born weighing only 2 lbs, 5 oz and being given less than 24 hours to live, Christen’s life experiences inspired him to create the foundation.
Raised in Memphis, specifically the Raleigh neighborhood, Christen attended Craigmont High School and developed a passion for music. He played the baritone in middle and high school band and furthered his music studies at the Stax Music Academy. During his time there, he played the trombone in the jazz ensemble and the academy’s rhythm section ensemble for 4 years. Christen also attended Berklee College of Music’s 5-week summer program through an award he received from the Memphis Beat the Odds Foundation in 2017.
With a love for various artistic disciplines, including music and photography, Christen aims to inspire other creatives through his organization and future philanthropic endeavors. His goal is to show that one’s odds do not define them and that dreams can become a reality.
