A Qualitative Research on the Socially Transformative Role of Women Entrepreneurs and Women's Achievements in Turkey

Abstract

Purpose – As a concept closely related to economic development, welfare and employment, entrepreneurship has changed over time and is one of the important dynamics in the development of countries. In the world of entrepreneurship, not only men but also women entrepreneurs are present in the field today. The fact that women have gone beyond their traditional roles and are present in business life has caused women entrepreneurship to be addressed separately. At this point, it is seen that governments have also developed mechanisms that support women entrepreneurship. Differences also emerge in the entrepreneurial activities of women and men who have different dominant skills. This causes diversity in the field and ultimately turns into an output that develops the country's economy. The main purpose of this research is to try to understand and explain how women entrepreneurs undertake a role and transform in the social dimension and what gains women who take part in entrepreneurial activities achieve after this process. Design/methodology/approach – In the qualitatively designed research, the interviews conducted with 20 women in the “In Pursuit of Their Dreams” program broadcast on TRT, which is based on “Women living in villages and cities overcoming the geographical, economic and social difficulties they face one by one with their dreams, determination, energy and most importantly the support of our state and achieving success”, were subjected to content analysis. Findings – According to the research results, it was found that women entrepreneurs support and guide other women in social transformation and are also role models. When the gains of entrepreneurship were examined within the scope of the research, the prominent findings were; being able to earn income, self-confidence, socialization, feeling of success, being able to communicate, peace/inner satisfaction, freedom. Discussion – In light of the findings of the research, it can be stated that women entrepreneurs have a social transformative effect and, unlike male entrepreneurs, they offer gains for other women. Correctly reading the periodic socio-economic effects in this transformative effect will be very important in order to increase women entrepreneurship and its possible effects.