Achievements & Testimonials

Makeda has demonstrated exceptional capability in influencing business strategies, optimizing resources, and fostering professional growth, all while maintaining the highest engagement scores across her team. Her strategic influence extends beyond traditional training roles, allowing her to impact various aspects of the business through trusted relationships with Director and VP-level stakeholders. She has effectively challenged unnecessary vendor spending by showcasing the ROI of internal learning initiatives and has advocated for necessary training investments. Additionally, Makeda's innovative communication methods, such as monthly video updates, ensure widespread sharing of results and insights within the RCC organization. Her efforts in offering stretch roles have also facilitated professional development opportunities for colleagues, further contributing to the organization's talent pool.

You rose to the challenge and joined a new team that went through several different changes in 2 years. I appreciate your exemplary leadership and the positive impact you have had on our team and myself. Your dedication to developing each team member, coupled with your unwavering support, has not only fostered our professional growth but has also cultivated a culture of excellence within our program. Your leadership skills are truly commendable. You have a unique ability to guide us with a clear vision, while also encouraging open communication and collaboration. This has empowered us to take on new challenges with confidence and strive for higher standards of performance.

Makeda has played a pivotal role in helping me identify and celebrate milestones I had previously overlooked. This shift in perspective has not only boosted my motivation but also enhanced my ability to communicate my contributions more effectively. By staying aligned with my development plan and recognizing completed goals, I've been able to maintain momentum and deliver consistent results. Through Makeda's support, I've been able to embody Heart At Work Behaviors™ such as Accountability and Passion for Growth. Her encouragement to reflect on my achievements has helped me take ownership of my progress and approach challenges with a growth mindset. This has positively influenced my performance, allowing me to stay engaged, resilient, and focused on continuous improvement.

Makeda brings a bold and visionary mindset to her work, consistently generating big ideas that challenge conventional thinking and open new possibilities. Her ability to think expansively while staying grounded in strategic priorities makes her a valuable driver of innovation and progress. Whether she's shaping new approaches to learning or reimagining how we support talent development, Makeda's ideas are both inspiring and actionable. Equally impactful is the culture of support and collaboration she fosters with her peers. Makeda creates an environment where ideas are welcomed, contributions are valued, and people feel empowered to do their best work. Her inclusive and encouraging approach strengthens team cohesion and helps build a shared sense of purpose. Makeda's influence is felt not only in the ideas she brings forward but in the way she brings people together to bring those ideas to life.

Makeda has had a profound impact on me personally and professionally. She has challenged me to step outside my comfort zone, learn new skills, and take on stretch roles that have prepared me for a recent promotion and the next step in my career. She introduced our team to KPIs, the importance of measurable data and expanded our understanding beyond the basics, and provided exposure to other areas to enhance development. Makeda's leadership is transformative. She inspires trust, rises to every challenge, and consistently puts people first. I am grateful for everything I've learned under her guidance and for the unwavering support she provides to her team.

A huge thank you to Makeda Duncan for being such an incredible moderator for our "Crowdsource Your Curriculum" panel!