Authors:
Faith Kurete, Motlalepule R. Mampane, P. Paul Jose
Addresses:
Department of Psychology, Women’s University in Africa, Harare, Zimbabwe. Department of Educational Psychology, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria, South Africa. Department of Commerce, Tharananellur Arts and Science College, Irinjalakuda, Kerala, India.
Abstract:
This study investigates the role that self-determination plays in bolstering the resilience of female entrepreneurs in economically underprivileged areas of Zimbabwe. Despite the many obstacles they face, many women entrepreneurs in underprivileged areas exhibit incredible fortitude, motivated by self-determination. The enduring socioeconomic obstacles that prevent women from succeeding as entrepreneurs include restricted access to capital, constrictive cultural norms, and market volatility. Self-reliant women continue to establish and maintain businesses despite these obstacles, demonstrating flexibility and tenacity. The main goal of the study is to find out how self-determination helps women entrepreneurs become more resilient and how it affects the sustainability of their businesses and the welfare of their households. Anchored in Self-determination Theory (SDT), the study examines how competence, autonomy, and intrinsic motivation help women entrepreneurs navigate business uncertainty and financial difficulties. Research is qualitative in this study. Poor rural and urban female entrepreneurs were extensively interviewed. Resilience, self-determination, and economic effects are assessed. Self-driven female entrepreneurs overcome obstacles, adapt, and persevere to build financial stability. Social support, active learning, and creative corporate practices enhance resilience. Poor funding, market access, and inconsistent restrictions limit their potential. Self-determination boosts entrepreneurship, society, and household finances. Political leaders must recognise the economic potential of underprivileged female entrepreneurs and encourage their independence and resilience.
Keywords: Self-Determination and Resilience; Women Communities; Flexibility and Persistence; Financial Difficulties; Women Entrepreneurs; Community Growth; Entrepreneurial Empowerment.
Received on: 14/03/2025, Revised on: 23/05/2025, Accepted on: 12/07/2025, Published on: 03/01/2026
DOI: 10.64091/ATITP.2026.000270
AVE Trends in Intelligent Technoprise Letters, 2026 Vol. 3 No. 1 , Pages: 49–56