Narrative Identities of Women Leaders in Farm Production

Date of Award

5-2022

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy in Leadership Studies, major in Organization Development

First Advisor

Emerald Jay D. Ilac, PhD

Abstract

Women made significant contributions to the agriculture sector as farmers, businesswomen, entrepreneurs, and leaders. In the Philippines, the agriculture sector is the second-largest source of employment for women. However, women only occupy 26% of the total agricultural employment which is attributed to gender inequalities. Current gender research showed that women empowerment, including its leadership dimension, was not fully considered being highly contextual and culture-specific. This study examined the narrative identities of women leaders in farm production based on their reconstructed past and an imagined future to derive meaning and purpose of their present leadership. Six major narrative constructs were established: overcoming hardships, putting family first, engaging in multiple organizations, developing the self, pursuing socio-civic goals and causes, and having faith in God. The aggregate storyline of their leadership journey was childhood to early adulthood challenges, family/occupational changes, community recognition and organizational challenges, resolution of organizational challenges, and future plans. Findings revealed that women leaders in farm production were strong and courageous leaders because they had overcome challenging life experiences and had faith in God. Their self and leader identities were inseparably linked and their leadership development was a natural progression. Results can be used to develop women empowerment frameworks and women leadership development programs distinct to Southeast Asia to address gender gaps in the agriculture sector. Keywords: women leaders, farm production, narrative identity, Philippines

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