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Navigating Uncharted Territory: A post Covid-19 Exploration of the Resilience of Women Owned Small Businesses in the Wake of the Pandemic Donga, Gift; Chimucheka, Tendai
International Journal of Entrepreneurship, Business and Creative Economy Vol. 4 No. 2 (2024): July
Publisher : Research Synergy Foundation

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.31098/ijebce.v4i2.2340

Abstract

Resilience has long been acknowledged in the literature as a crucial aspect of the entrepreneur's character and personality. Additionally, it is acknowledged as a vital component of the entrepreneurial process that propels businesses to great outcomes. However, to the researchers’ knowledge, there remains limited understanding regarding how women-owned small businesses in South Africa withstand and function during challenging social and economic crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. In the post-modern period we live in today, women will inevitably play an important part in business and economic development, and they are eager to become involved and make a difference in their communities. The COVID-19 pandemic has intensified the challenges faced by female entrepreneurs in growing their businesses. This research focuses on investigating how resilient South African women entrepreneurs have been in response to the pandemic. Drawing from resilience theory, the study employed a qualitative approach to gather and analyze data from a group of 15 women entrepreneurs based in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, using thematic analysis. The following four themes emerged from the findings; business agility; optimistic outlook; leveraged digital technology; and business networks. This research enhances existing resilience theory by integrating fresh insights gathered from the resilience strategies employed by female entrepreneurs in times of crisis. Results from the study are also expected to contribute to sustaining South African women owned small businesses and empowering their resilience, despite adversities.
HOSPITALITY ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN A RESOURCE CONSTRAINED ENVIRONMENT AMID THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC: EVIDENCE FROM GUESTHOUSE OPERATORS Donga, Gift; Chimucheka, Tendai
Journal of Management Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) Vol 18 No 2 (2025): JOURNAL OF MANAGEMENT Small and Medium Enterprises (SME's)
Publisher : Universitas Nusa Cendana

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.35508/jom.v18i2.20675

Abstract

This study leverages Complexity Theory to explore the multifaceted experiences of guesthouse operators in Alice, South Africa, during the pandemic. While global perspectives on the pandemic's impact on the hospitality sector are well documented, a notable research gap remains in understanding the localised experiences of guesthouses in marginalised contexts. Guided by an interpretive paradigm, this research employed a qualitative methodology to capture the lived experiences of guest house operators. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six purposively selected participants, allowing for in-depth insights into the challenges faced and the strategies employed. Thematic analysis of the data revealed key challenges, including revenue losses, staff retrenchments, operational constraints, and limited government support, underscoring the interconnected nature of the economic and social impacts. By situating the experiences of Alice guesthouse operators within a broader South African and global context, this study contributes valuable insights into entrepreneurial resilience in crisis-prone environments. Keywords: COVID-19 Pandemic; Hospitality Entrepreneurship; Guesthouse Operators
Overview of Women Entrepreneurship in The Eastern Cape Province of South Africa Donga, Gift; Chimucheka, Tendai
IJEBD (International Journal of Entrepreneurship and Business Development) Vol 7 No 3 (2024): May 2024
Publisher : LPPM of NAROTAMA UNIVERSITY

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.29138/ijebd.v7i3.2545

Abstract

Purpose: This article aims to review prior research on women entrepreneurship and recommend/propose future research opportunities for South Africa’s women’s entrepreneurship research agenda. Design/methodology/approach: A literature review technique was used, and all studies between 2002 and 2022 that addressed the issues pertaining to women entrepreneurs in the Eastern Cape were searched and analysed. To successfully do this, a review of literature consisting of 14 studies was undertaken. Findings: The literature review pertaining to women entrepreneurship in the Eastern Cape Province yielded five ensuing themes: gender bias within the entrepreneurial discourse, motivation for women entrepreneurs, contribution of women entrepreneurs, barriers facing women entrepreneurs, and support required by women entrepreneurs. Research limitations/implications: Women entrepreneurship research in South Africa is still growing, which presented a limit to the number of studies that were used in carrying out the review. Practical implications: The study encourages women business owners to develop their professional skills and familiarise themselves with entrepreneurial capabilities that have a positive impact on their productivity. Paper type: Literature review