Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Social Work

Faculty/School

Lyle S. Hallman Faculty of Social Work

First Advisor

Dr. Shoshana Pollack

Advisor Role

Dissertation Advisor

Second Advisor

Dr. Magnus Mfoafo-M'Carthy

Advisor Role

Committee Member

Third Advisor

Dr. Ginette Lafreniere

Advisor Role

Committee Member

Fourth Advisor

Dr. Olufunke Oba

Advisor Role

Committee Member

Abstract

This study explores the lived experiences of Nigerian women social entrepreneurs, using a qualitative methodology rooted in yarning circles, a culturally respectful, relational approach that foregrounds storytelling and co-construction of knowledge. Through this method, the research examines how these women navigate the intersections of gender, culture, power, and purpose within highly patriarchal and institutionally constrained environments.

The findings assert that Nigerian women social entrepreneurs are not static actors driven by fixed motivations, but dynamic changemakers whose goals shift as they gain access to resources, legitimacy, and social capital. The Cycle of Privilege framework helps us understand this evolution as an expanding vision that integrates financial sustainability, cultural identity, and long-term empowerment. These women begin their ventures with a mission and purpose, which is often driven by personal experience or community need. Yet, as they navigate the constraints and opportunities within patriarchal, cultural, and institutional systems, their strategies evolve. They become more intentional about thriving on their own terms with agency and vision. For some, this means balancing social purpose with wealth creation; for others, it means redefining what empowerment looks like in a context where culture cannot be separated from daily life.

This research calls for an expanded definition of impact that values cultural well-being, community legitimacy, and adaptive strategies alongside financial outcomes. It contributes to theory and practice by offering a context-rich roadmap for reimagining women’s social entrepreneurship in Nigeria, through their voices, within their realities, and toward futures they are already building. Through Nigerian women’s lived experiences, this research challenges dominant narratives and offers new perspectives on motivation, agency, and transformation in social entrepreneurship.

Comments

This dissertation explores the lived experiences of Nigerian women social entrepreneurs using yarning circles, a relational storytelling method. It contributes to feminist and social entrepreneurship scholarship by introducing the Cycle of Privilege framework and calling for broader measures of impact that include cultural well-being and community legitimacy.

Convocation Year

2025

Convocation Season

Fall

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