Shumaila Yousafzai

Professor of Entrepreneurship
Intuition & Curiosity Led Researcher
Mother Scholar
Justice-Centered Research

Shumaila Yousafzai

Professor of Entrepreneurship
Intuition & Curiosity Led Researcher
Mother Scholar
Justice-Centered Research
About Me
I am a Full Professor at Nazarbayev University and the Director of the Research Centre for Entrepreneurship (NURCE). My research investigates how gender, institutional complexity, identity, and culture influence entrepreneurial ecosystems — particularly in underexplored and underrepresented contexts.

I have held academic positions at Cardiff University, Loughborough University, and Brunel University London. I earned my PhD from Cardiff Business School, where my doctoral work explored entrepreneurial intentions through the lens of institutional and cultural theory.
My Books & Edited Volumes
Over 10 published books on research entrepreneurship
Awards & Recognition
    Milestones of Academic Excellence
    PhD in Business Studies —
    Cardiff Business School
    Specialized in Entrepreneurship and Institutional Theory
    Lecturer Roles — Brunel University, Loughborough University, Cardiff University
    Developed expertise in entrepreneurship education
    Best Paper Awards:
    IBIMA, IntEnt, Academy of Marketing
    Recognized for research contributions
    50+ Journal Publications and
    Co-Edited 5 Books
    Focused on entrepreneurship, gender, and global development
    Full Professor Appointment —
    Nazarbayev University, Astana
    Achieved full professorship in Entrepreneurship.
    NU Profile
    Founder & Director of NURCE
    Established and leads the Nazarbayev University Research Centre for Entrepreneurship.
    NURCE Website
    Research Areas
    My research focuses on the vital intersection of entrepreneurial pathways, gender dynamics, and the empowerment of disadvantaged individuals. Through my work, I strive to make a significant economic and societal impact
    Gender and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystems
    Identity, culture, and business development
    Entrepreneurship in emerging markets
    Institutional theory and entrepreneurship
    My Blog
      Contacts
      For research collaborations, opportunities, or academic inquiries, feel free to reach out.
      Email: shumaila.yousafzai@nu.edu.kz
      Based in Astana, Kazakhstan