SPEAKER
Brenda Mickens
Born in South Carolina, Brenda Wilson Mickens grew up in Virginia, where she attended Richmond Public Schools. She earned her Bachelor’s in Psychology and Master’s in Adult Learning/Human Resource Development from Virginia Commonwealth University.
Owner and Lead Designer of Brenda Dezigns LLC, Brenda is a member of several business and personal development organizations. She is a leader who has a heart for service. Her career spans over multiple disciplines which allows her to practice her philosophy of ‘Innovation, Teamwork and Stewardship’.
Brenda strives to Enhance Professional Development and Personal Enrichment within her Clients. The Professional Development program trains new designers through Internships and Apprenticeships in both Africa and the US, as well as through Student Exchange. Clients gain Personal Enrichment through Specialized Training and Exposure to the Made in Africa Fashion Industry. Brenda Dezigns, LLC was born out of Brenda’s desire to link her Passion—Creating—to her Calling—Teaching!
In her youth, Brenda was attracted to vibrant colors and beautiful patterns of African Attire displayed in 1970’s media. She learned to sew at an early age and received her first sewing machine at age 12. Throughout high school, she created many of her outfits complete with head wrap and jewelry.
Brenda began in her teens to display her innate ability to teach as a sitter and youth church school teacher. Her experience in correctional and higher education prepared her to teach diverse students in various environments, including online virtual learning.
The birth of Brenda Dezigns, LLC from the marriage of ”Creating” and “Teaching”, allows Brenda to fulfill her mission to: 1)Support Ethical Sustainable Communities in Africa; 2)Dispel Myths about African Culture; and 3)Empower the Diaspora to Embrace their African Heritage.