yousafzais@cf.ac.uk
Research theme:
FORCED MIGRATION AND WOMEN’S ENTREPRENEURSHIP
This research explores the profound impact of forced migration on women entrepreneurship. It delves into the unique experiences of internally displaced Palestinian women entrepreneurs, who confront injustices stemming from occupation and patriarchy. Additionally, it examines the narratives of women entrepreneurs who sought refuge in other countries, forging new paths in unfamiliar lands.
The focal point of this research is the in-depth analysis of two Russian women entrepreneurs who made the difficult decision to leave their home country due to political and economic instability. By closely studying their journeys, the research sheds light on how these resilient women adapt to their new environments and overcome the formidable challenges associated with establishing and growing businesses in unfamiliar territories.
Central to the findings is the recognition of key factors that contribute to the entrepreneurial success of migrant women. The research underscores the importance of agility, resilience, resourcefulness, and social networks in facilitating their ability to navigate uncertain and rapidly changing environments. These women exemplify the power of determination, adaptability, and connection-building as they build their ventures in new settings.
Through an exploration of their stories, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of the vital role women play in entrepreneurship. It highlights the specific challenges and opportunities presented by international migration, shedding light on the potential of entrepreneurship as a means of social and economic empowerment for migrant women.
The focal point of this research is the in-depth analysis of two Russian women entrepreneurs who made the difficult decision to leave their home country due to political and economic instability. By closely studying their journeys, the research sheds light on how these resilient women adapt to their new environments and overcome the formidable challenges associated with establishing and growing businesses in unfamiliar territories.
Central to the findings is the recognition of key factors that contribute to the entrepreneurial success of migrant women. The research underscores the importance of agility, resilience, resourcefulness, and social networks in facilitating their ability to navigate uncertain and rapidly changing environments. These women exemplify the power of determination, adaptability, and connection-building as they build their ventures in new settings.
Through an exploration of their stories, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of the vital role women play in entrepreneurship. It highlights the specific challenges and opportunities presented by international migration, shedding light on the potential of entrepreneurship as a means of social and economic empowerment for migrant women.
If a building becomes architecture, then it is art
The narratives of Anna and Olga serve as compelling examples that inspire and inform other migrant entrepreneurs facing similar circumstances. Their experiences offer valuable lessons on how to overcome obstacles, adapt business strategies, and thrive amidst adversity. By sharing their stories, this research aims to inspire and encourage aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly those who have experienced forced migration, to recognize the transformative power of entrepreneurship in their lives.
Importantly, the research emphasizes the multifaceted nature of agility during times of crisis. It highlights the need to consider various dimensions, such as the moral aspect, when navigating complex situations. Furthermore, it explores how psychological resilience attributes shape the effectiveness of resilience strategies deployed by migrant women entrepreneurs. Drawing from the experiences of Anna and Olga, the research underscores the influence of their home country backgrounds on their perceptions of support systems and resource utilization in their host countries during different crises.
In conclusion, this research provides valuable insights into the resilience strategies employed by a unique group of migrant women entrepreneurs. By understanding their experiences, policymakers and program developers can better design initiatives that support migrant women in managing crises and building resilience. Ultimately, this research contributes to the broader literature on entrepreneurship and migration, highlighting the transformative potential of entrepreneurship for migrant women and the societal impact they can create.
Importantly, the research emphasizes the multifaceted nature of agility during times of crisis. It highlights the need to consider various dimensions, such as the moral aspect, when navigating complex situations. Furthermore, it explores how psychological resilience attributes shape the effectiveness of resilience strategies deployed by migrant women entrepreneurs. Drawing from the experiences of Anna and Olga, the research underscores the influence of their home country backgrounds on their perceptions of support systems and resource utilization in their host countries during different crises.
In conclusion, this research provides valuable insights into the resilience strategies employed by a unique group of migrant women entrepreneurs. By understanding their experiences, policymakers and program developers can better design initiatives that support migrant women in managing crises and building resilience. Ultimately, this research contributes to the broader literature on entrepreneurship and migration, highlighting the transformative potential of entrepreneurship for migrant women and the societal impact they can create.
Working Paper:
Surviving the storm: How Russian migrant women entrepreneurs demonstrate agility in turbulent times?
Conference paper: Muzykina Y., Aljanova N., and Yousafzai S. (2003). Embracing Resilience and Forging New Horizons: The Untold Stories of Migrant Women Entrepreneurs. International Workshop on Entrepreneurship as Driver of Economic and Social Change: Insights from Eastern Europe, South Caucasus, and Central Asia, Tbilisi, Georgia, 2023.