Lived Experiences of Females With Entrepreneurship in Sudan: Networking, Social Expectations, and Family Support

Abstract

Extensive research exists on female entrepreneurship in developed countries such as North America and Europe; however, there is limited research on women entrepreneurs in African nations, specifically in Sudan. This descriptive phenomenological research was designed to explore, discover, and describe the perceptions and lived experiences of successful Sudanese female entrepreneurs concerning overcoming the challenges and obstacles faced in the beginning and managing new businesses in the region of Khartoum, capital of Sudan. This article uses the salient theories and concepts of entrepreneurship value creation theory, social role theory, challenges, and barriers facing women entrepreneurs. All these theories and concepts have been instrumental in understanding the lived experiences of challenges and barriers facing women entrepreneurs in Khartoum, Sudan. Data gathered from 19 female entrepreneurs purposively selected across Khartoum, Sudan, revealed that women struggle (a) having to secure funds; (b) society’s perception of suitable work for women; (c) access to networking; and (d) inadequate support from the government. The research also revealed that factors that influence factors to be successful are women’s family support and motivation; adjusting to social expectations. In addition to the strategies used to manage a successful business, there is a need for training and development skills and being persistent and believing in oneself. The research results showed that women experience mixed feelings during establishing and operating the business. The experience of women with the barriers and challenges includes fear, frustration, stress, and anger when they begin to manage the business. However, women also experienced positive feelings include risk-taking, courage, passion for learning, empowerment, fearlessness, ambition, determination, persistence, and believing in oneself. The women in this research were creative and initiative and managed to begin and operate a successful business.