Lived Experiences of Women Entrepreneurs Regarding Socio-Cultural Constraints in Entrepreneurship in Southern Punjab, Pakistan

Abstract

The research paper investigates the socio-cultural constraints faced by women entrepreneurs during startup and expansion of their entrepreneurial ventures in Ahmedpur East of District Bahawalpur through documenting their lived experiences. The research is primarily a multi-sited ethnography and utilizes qualitative research methods such as in-depth semi-structured interviews and focused group discussions on collecting primary data from a selective sample of 25 entrepreneurs ascertained through sampling technique. The study highlights gender-specific socio-cultural challenges such as social perceptions and biases, work-life balance, patronage of male family members, restricted mobility owing to Purdah and low recognition and payment of women's work etc. as prime reasons that hinder not only women participation as entrepreneurs but also inhibits their engagements and choices in entrepreneurship. Socio-cultural factors not only systematically impact women's social interactions and decision-making but transform into multiple other challenges that women fight and struggle with while making their space as entrepreneurs.

Identity Construction of Pakistani Female Entrepreneurs in Religious Framework: An Interplay of Sociocultural and Religious Factors

“…Sensitivity to the challenges faced by Pakistani women entrepreneurs reveals a high level of male dominance in all aspects of society. In these civilisations, the underlying norm regards women as ‘virtuous’, and men as caretakers who impose norms by keeping women on the correct track (Raza & Leghari, 2020). As a result of these conventions, women should be instructed to wear the hijab rather than engage in business.…”