Udugu Journey LLC: A Community-Focused Approach to Project Management and Leadership
In Stafford, Virginia, Brenda Dixon leads Udugu Journey LLC, a dynamic consulting firm that empowers businesses and individuals through project management training, leadership coaching, change management consulting, and team development. Brenda describes the mission behind her company, stating, "At Udugu Journey, our story is inspired by the Swahili term' Udugu,' which represents brotherhood, unity, and community." She aims to foster connections and drive transformation through her company, primarily supporting small to medium-sized businesses. Udugu Journey's services, she says, are intended to "help unlock potential, drive change, and create lasting impact."
With over two decades of experience in internal auditing and process improvement, Brenda's journey has taken her across industries in Southern Africa. Reflecting on her path, she says, "I began my journey as an internal auditor focused on process improvement. I later transitioned to consulting as a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, where I tackled complex challenges across various industries." This wealth of experience and her passion for helping people excel shaped her vision for Udugu Journey. Today, Brenda is a certified professional coach and recognized trainer by the Project Management Institute (PMI) and Scaled Agile, and she thrives on helping teams and individuals achieve excellence in project management.
The philosophy behind Udugu Journey is rooted in the belief that growth happens through meaningful connections. Brenda describes her approach as "deeply rooted in fostering interdependence and a sense of shared purpose," which helps clients grow individually and contribute to their communities. Her coaching and consulting services emphasize this principle, aiming to develop strong, community-oriented leaders who drive positive change.
Brenda finds her biggest inspiration in the leaders who have influenced her, noting, "I feel a duty to pass that impact forward." She sees herself as a "mirror" for her clients, helping them recognize their strengths and potential. "The most exciting part," she says, "is seeing their eyes light up when they overcome obstacles and realize their own potential." Brenda believes that by helping clients reframe their perspectives, she enables them to unlock what is already within them.
Since relocating from Arlington in 2020, Brenda has been moved by her community's kindness and unity. She reflects on a powerful Zulu greeting, "Sawubona," which she translates as "I see you, you are important to me, and I value you." This sentiment, she explains, captures her hope for Stafford, where she is "planting [her] roots" and raising her family. Her commitment to nurturing this spirit of unity extends to her career development program, "Inspired Career Pathway," which she started as a way to "coach students on self-awareness and confidence as they prepare for their careers."
Brenda and her husband, Albert Dixon, live on a farm with their eight children and two dogs, Kimbo and Leo. She's excited to expand Udugu Journey's impact with in-person project management courses in Stafford. "I'm eager to support both companies and individuals in the community," she shares, "helping them develop the skills and confidence needed to succeed." Through Udugu Journey, Brenda continues to inspire Stafford's residents to connect, grow, and thrive in their personal and professional endeavors.
