About Me

Denene Jonielle Rodney is a first-rate business owner and business consultant from New York, with more than 20 years of experience. Denene is the CEO of Zebra Strategies, a leading market research company dedicated to amplifying the voices of underserved and vulnerable populations. Through her extensive career and industry experience, Denene has become a prominent figure in the field, known for her innovative and radical approach to research. Her work has been instrumental in helping Fortune 500 companies, non-profits, and government agencies understand and engage with diverse communities effectively. Learn more about Denene’s services and expertise, and reach out to get in contact here to partner together.

Denene’s dedication to social impact and community building extends beyond her professional achievements. She is a passionate advocate for Black women entrepreneurs, using her platform to mentor and inspire the next generation of business leaders, for example, in 2024 Zebra Strategies partnered with Sephora to mentor teens in Harlem, New York. Through her public speaking engagements, Gritfully podcast, and entrepreneur mentoring, Denene shares valuable insights and strategies, empowering others to navigate the complexities of the business world. Her commitment to fostering trust and dignity in all her interactions has earned her numerous awards and accolades, solidifying her reputation as a trailblazer in market research and entrepreneurship.

Achievements and Recognition

Throughout her career, Denene has earned numerous awards and accolades, including the 2023 WPO Women2Watch, the 2022 Insights Association Research Laureate award, and the WIRE Inaugural MRX Diversity Champion award. Her dedication to the advancement of women in the market research industry has been widely recognized, and she continues to be a driving force for diversity and inclusion. Under her leadership, Zebra Strategies has become a certified woman and minority-owned business, known for its social impact and innovation. In 2023, Zebra Strategies was named to the 2023 Inc. 5000 List of Fastest-Growing Companies, and was honored with The New York & New Jersey Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC) Class II Supplier of The Year award in 2018. Denene's mission is to give voice to those who are often overlooked, shaping the world into a better place for everyone.

Philosophy and Approach

Denene Jonielle Rodney's approach to market research is grounded in cultural humility and a what-if mentality. She believes in creating safe, non-stigmatizing environments that establish trust and dignity for individuals, no matter their circumstances. This philosophy is reflected in the multidisciplinary team she leads, which mirrors the diversity of the communities they serve. Denene’s unique research methods and her ability to understand and communicate the nuances of different cultural and socioeconomic experiences set her apart in the industry. Her work not only provides valuable insights for her clients but also helps to foster a more inclusive and empathetic society.