The Leadership Experiences of Women Leaders in Grassroots Economic Empowerment Programs: A Study of Global Cases

The purpose of this research study was to explore the leadership experiences of women leaders of economic empowerment programs at the grassroots level to create a framework designed to maximize their leadership. A heuristic or interpretive phenomenological qualitative research design and approach were used to study women leaders in seven nations, who are connected to the same global mission network. One-on-one interviews, qualitative surveys, focus groups, and a document review were used to conduct the research. The data analysis was conducted iteratively through multiple coding rounds, which led to the categorization of codes into several analytic themes for each research question. The analysis was validated through surveys, focus groups, the literature review, and a document review. Women leaders use a variety of leadership styles. They share common internal traits and life experiences, while also experiencing similar obstacles and challenges. They are proud of their leadership while also looking for additional results. The economic empowerment programs they lead are contextualized and innovated through the leadership of the women, and the goals are incremental steps of growth rather than radical transformation. A global mission network has provided significant support to these women. Yet, there are significant improvements that could maximize the leadership of women. The final chapter includes a framework designed to maximize women’s leadership through an understanding of spaces of belonging, the spiritual journey of women, asset-based participatory development and polycentric leadership, mission, and organization.