Theses and Dissertations (University of Pretoria)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://hdl.handle.net/2263/31741

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The role of trust in family business succession planning
(University of Pretoria, 2025-03) Mamabolo, Anastacia; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Khenisa, Boipelo
Trust plays a pivotal role in the sustainability and longevity of family businesses, particularly in succession planning. Unlike corporate enterprises governed by formal structures, family businesses rely on interpersonal relationships, making trust a crucial factor in leadership transitions. However, succession planning remains a significant challenge for many family-owned businesses, often leading to disputes, instability, and, in some cases, business failure. This study explores the role of trust in family business succession planning by examining strategies used to appoint future leaders, the impact of trust on leadership transitions, and the factors influencing trust development. A qualitative research approach was employed, using semi-structured interviews with founders, successors, and key stakeholders from various family businesses in South Africa. Thematic analysis was conducted using Atlas.ti to identify patterns and key insights. Findings indicate that trust facilitates business continuity, smooth transitions, and leadership development. However, trust is influenced by internal family dynamics, governance structures, and external market conditions. The study underscores the need for structured succession planning, transparent communication, and leadership mentoring to sustain trust and ensure long-term success. The findings provide valuable insights for family businesses, policymakers, and scholars in understanding the complexities of trust in succession planning.
Benford’s law and electoral integrity: A forensic analysis of African elections
(University of Pretoria, 2025-04-14) Saville, Adrian; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Vilakazi, Zwelithini Edward
This study examines the applicability of Benford’s Law (BL) as a forensic auditing tool for detecting anomalies in electoral results. BL, which predicts the expected distribution of leading digits in naturally occurring numerical datasets, has been widely employed in financial fraud detection and academic research validation. While prior studies have explored BL’s potential in election forensics, its reliability in distinguishing between genuine fraud and natural statistical deviations remains inconclusive. Using electoral data from Zimbabwe and Kenya, contrasted with benchmark cases from more stable democracies that are South Africa and Botswana, this research applies multiple BL digit tests (first-digit, second-digit, and first-two-digit analyses) alongside complementary statistical measures (chi-square, Kolmogorov-Smirnov, Mean Absolute Deviation, and p-value tests). The results indicate that while BL can flag irregularities in election data, its limitations as a standalone tool necessitate caution. False positives may arise due to legitimate data quirks, and contextual factors can distort digit distribution patterns. The study concludes that BL should serve as a preliminary screening mechanism rather than definitive proof of electoral manipulation. To enhance election integrity, future forensic audits should integrate BL with advanced statistical techniques or machine learning models. These findings contribute to methodological debates in election forensics and provide practical recommendations for strengthening post-election audit frameworks.
The paradox of flexibility: Exploring the dichotomy of employer-initiated flexible working arrangements and return-to-office directives on knowledge workers’ motivation in the contemporary workplace post-Covid-19
(University of Pretoria, 2024-11-07) Meintjes, Anel; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Mofokeng , Molotsi Ntsieng Hendrick
The global outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic precipitated a substantial transformation in business operations. With the imposition of lockdowns and social distancing measures, organisations across the globe were compelled to transition from conventional office-based work to adopt flexible working arrangements, prominently featuring working from home. This adaptive response was critical for sustaining business continuity and meeting organisational objectives within a complex and restrictive business environment. This qualitative exploratory research aims to explore the paradox of flexible working arrangements as initiated by employers to circumvent business challenges during COVID-19 and the new emerging concept known as return-to-office directives, where employers are now mandating employees to adopt pre-COVID-19 office centric setups. Managers are confronted with the paradoxical dilemma of whether to continue with flexible working arrangements or implement return-to-office directives. Each alternative presents significant unintended repercussions. This study aims to establish the effect of these concept on employees’ motivation, specifically knowledge workers. The primary research question sought to examine the impact of management’s decision to implement return-to-office directives, which mandate the physical presence of knowledge workers in the office, on their motivation level and attitude towards their work. To fully address the primary research question, managers were also asked to provide recounts of their perception of their staff’s motivation towards work after implementing return-to-work directives in addition to data obtained from knowledge workers. A qualitative research approach was considered appropriate, the researcher adopted interpretivism philosophy to complement it. Given the exploratory nature of the study, the theory development was inductive. Due to time constrains the study was cross sectional and used semi-structured interviews to collect data from participants purposefully drawn from researcher’s professional network. The findings showed that implementing return-to-office directives does not affect employees’ motivation, even thou the elements of discomfort, inconveniences were noted as well as challenges of dealing with transition was experienced, the level of motivation remained unaffected. Flexible working arrangements were found to enhance employees’ motivation. This finding corroborated the literature. Consequently, a framework was developed to elucidate the effects of flexible working arrangements and return-to-work directives on organisations to help business leaders make informed decisions about workplace policies and their repercussions on employees’ motivation, productivity and workplace effectiveness.
Gender equality in the workplace: A case for Generation z women
(University of Pretoria, 2025-03-04) Ndletyana, Dorothy; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Dodzo, Cordellia Eve
Gender bias continues to be a pervasive issue in the workplace, impacting career progression, remuneration, and overall job satisfaction for women. It is one of the main reasons why women’s careers stagnate. Although considerable research has examined gender bias, gender discrimination and gender inequities, only a limited number of studies investigate how Generation Z (Gen Z) women experience and navigate workplace gender bias, and their views on how to address gender bias in the workplace. This study aims to analyse the experiences of Gen Z women in the workplace, focusing on their methods for combating gender bias and their views on eliminating systemic inequities. An interpretivist perspective was adopted for this study. Through a qualitative narrative inquiry approach, utilising semi-structured interviews, the lived experiences of female Gen Z professionals were explored to gain insight into their experiences with gender bias in the workplace. The data was analysed using thematic analysis, revealing the strategies that are employed by Gen Z women to navigate gender bias and their views on how gender bias can be eliminated. This study enhances the sparse research on Gen Z's employment experiences and offers suggestions for organisations to foster more inclusive cultures. It underscores the necessity for focused gender-equity measures that cater to the unique expectations and advocacy strategies of Gen Z women.
The experiences of middle managers enacting strategic roles in financial services organisations in South Africa
(University of Pretoria, 2025-03-04) Meyerowitz, Danielle; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Gumede, Gugulani Pearl
For organisations to remain competitive in uncertain turbulent markets, growing research on emergent strategic approached calls for business leaders to open up strategy formulations processes and include actors outside the corporate elites, such as middle managers, in so called open strategy processes (Brielmaier & Friesl, 2023). This to afford them the unique insights and perspectives to guide strategy formulation for strategic agility. However, there is limited knowledge about the practical applications of such approaches beyond theory (Brielmaier & Friesl, 2023), and less about the middle managers perspectives when invited to join open strategy processes notwithstanding the dynamics of their interactions with senior leadership (Rouleau & Balogun, 2011; Splitter et al., 2023) This cross-sectional interpretivist study employs exploratory qualitative research methods to explore the experiences of middle managers in organisation’s strategy formulation processes. Data was gathered from 14 semis-structured interviews with middle managers from the financial services sector in South Africa and thematically analysed to gain their unique lived experiences. Findings indicated that the majority of middle managers were being included in strategy formulation with positive experiences of inclusion, however a new perspective were the negative consequences of inclusion that impaired their ability to effectively participate. These findings have important significant for business leaders adopting open strategy process as they provide pertinent insights that can guide the preparation of middle managers for inclusion in strategy formulation. In addition, this research addresses the call for research that gives light on the dynamic of interdiscursive interactions between senior leaders and middle managers from the middle managers unique perspective.
International entrepreneurial orientation of South African ventures
(University of Pretoria, 2025-03-04) Ntshakala, Thembekile; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Gongxeka, Nombulelo
The study examines Entrepreneurial Orientation (EO) on the internationalisation of South African Ventures focusing on export market participation. EO is investigated in terms of innovativeness, proactivity, and risk-taking, as well as in terms of the moderating influence of environmental factors, including government support expressed as policies, incentives, and infrastructure. Targeting small, medium, and large South African exporting firms, a quantitative, cross-sectional survey was conducted utilising a standardised research instrument distributed through convenience sampling. Exporters provided data, which was examined to determine how EO characteristics relate to international performance. Key findings suggest that whilst innovativeness showed an inverse relationship, proactiveness, and risk-taking positively correlated with improved export performance. Government support failed to moderate these relationships, such as policies, incentives, and infrastructure, and enhanced the benefits of EO on internationalisation. The primary challenges in South Africa identified turned out to be institutional support lacking and infrastructural constraints. The study concludes that effective internationalisation depends on both internal entrepreneurial capacities and external institutional elements. Recommendations stress the need to match government export support programs with the requirements of firms to promote sustainable economic development through increased export activity.
The role of automotive manufacturers in the supply chain diversity programmes of black-owned motor dealers in South Africa
(University of Pretoria, 2025-03) Zwane, Steven; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Gasa, Marcia
Automotive franchise dealerships in Suth Africa are predominantly white owned. Research shows that inclusion of black ownership in the automotive supply chain has historically been skewed toward upstream. This research set out to explore why, despite regulatory requirements, efforts by the OEMs, industry bodies and the interest by black investors, there are still a few black-owned automotive franchise dealers. Research confirms that there has been limited study on the progress of BBBEE in the downstream supply chain of the automotive industry with a particular focus on black dealership owners. Qualitative research was undertaken to explore this knowledge gap on BBBEE through diversity and inclusion, supplier selection, supply diversity and sort to gain understanding on the supplier development plans of the 7 manufacturing OEMs. Thematic analysis of the results shows that the selection processes and actions of the OEM do not align with their ambitious plans to transform the dealer network. OEMs have since changed the selection of dealer investors to include black ownership requirements, which they deviate from at their discretion. This is further aided by the absence of regulatory policing on compliance on such aspect of transformation. The results do not show concrete supplier development programmes to bring about the necessary transformation. The OEM stringent requirements to qualify for dealerships with high barriers of entry remain in place. These barriers include capital and extensive experience in the automotive industry, experience which the black investors with the capital do not have, and capital which black potential investors that have experience cannot access.
Overcoming barriers to technology adoption: Enhancing data accuracy and employee productivity in rubber manufacturing
(University of Pretoria, 2025-04-01) Pelser, Theuns; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Zuma, Trevor Matthew
The amalgamation of innovative technologies into manufacturing and production systems has transformed industry and allowed businesses to realise high levels of effectiveness and increased productivity, enabling them to achieve competitive advantage. Research on the barriers that might impede technology adoption within rubber manufacturing operations is limited. The aim of this research was to analyse the difficulties related to the use of technology in industrial processes, particularly the obstacles that may impede efficient data input, when employing a Data Management System (DMS). The study was aimed at helping determine the underlying factors contributing to employee resistance and insufficient data entry when using DMS. A quantitative study was conducted, data was gathered through surveys and made use of ordinal data . The data was analysed using the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model. The analysis indicated that challenges such as difficulty operating the DMS, insufficient training, limited technical support, and inadequate infrastructure hindered the adoption process. These barriers were manifested with inconsistent data input, employee frustration, and reduced engagement with technological systems. The insights gained from the results are valuable for practitioners and operational specialists involved in technology implementation in business. Harnessing thorough insights of these barriers is vital for developing functional strategies to promote technology integration across sectors.
Exploring the influence of organisational culture on women's perceptions of gender diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in the manufacturing sector
(University of Pretoria, 2025-03-04) Kinnear, Lisa; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Molapo, Nkhethoa
Women remain significantly underrepresented in leadership roles within male dominated industries like the South African manufacturing sector, despite decades of corporate commitments to gender diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) (Simionescu, Gherghina, Tawil, & Sheika, 2021). Research shows that at the current pace of change, it may take over a century to achieve gender parity in managerial positions (United Nations, 2023). This study critically examines how organisational culture shapes women’s perceptions of DEI initiatives, employing Schein’s Model of Organisational Culture as a theoretical framework (Schein, 2010). Specifically, it investigates how cultural artifacts, espoused values, and underlying assumptions influence workplace experiences, career progression, and retention of women. Through a qualitative, interpretive research approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with women leaders across multiple manufacturing organisations. Thematic analysis revealed persistent structural and cultural barriers, including exclusion from informal power networks, gendered leadership biases, and performative DEI strategies that fail to drive substantive change. Findings suggest that while many organisations have formal DEI policies, their effectiveness is undermined by entrenched cultural norms that reinforce male-dominated hierarchies. Women reported scepticism regarding the authenticity of these initiatives, often perceiving them as compliance-driven rather than transformative. Furthermore, the study highlights the critical role of leadership accountability, mentorship, and the establishment of psychologically safe work environments. The study provides evidence that meaningful gender diversity cannot be achieved through policy alone but requires cultural transformation at all levels of the organisation. This research contributes to both academic and industrial discussions on workplace diversity by offering practical recommendations for manufacturing organisations to bridge the gap between DEI rhetoric and lived reality. By challenging deeply ingrained cultural biases and reshaping leadership structures, organisations can create environments where women are not only present in leadership but also able to thrive.
The enablers and barriers of career progression for women into senior management positions in the manufacturing industry
(University of Pretoria, 2025-03-04) Singh, Khavitha; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Mhlaba, Zamalotshwa Zanele
This study aimed at examining the barriers and enablers which inhibit women’s promotions into senior leadership positions, within South Africa’s manufacturing sector. The research employed qualitative, exploratory design to gain insights from interviews involving semistructured interviews of senior female leaders. Structural barriers, like entrenched gender stereotypes, the glass ceiling effect, limited mentorship opportunities and work life imbalance, hindered women’s advancement. Supportive leadership practises, effective mentorship and sponsorship, transformational leadership and career resilience, on the other hand, were found to be the critical enablers of progression. Overall, these findings showed how organisational culture combined with societal norms, as well as individual agency, worked together to construct career trajectories. This piece of work contributed to the literature on gendered organisational practises by offering a nuanced understanding, and also included practical recommendations for policymakers and industry leaders to create a more inclusive work environment conducive for equal representation among its ranks at the senior level. Overall, the research pointed out that more systemic change was needed at organisations.
Exploring the effects of patriarchy on woman entrepreneurs in the manufacturing sector though a social feminist lens
(University of Pretoria, 2025-03-04) Kinnear, Lisa; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Mazibuko, Mandisa Wintess
Women entrepreneurs play an under-valued, but critical role in the expansion of economies, especially in developing countries. However their participation in male-dominated arenas like manufacturing is severely limited by patriarchal attitudes. This research investigates the impact of patriarchal norms on women-owned firms in the manufacturing sector. Using social feminist theory (SFT) as a theoretical lens of analysis, the study explores lived experiences to reveal the character of patriarchy. Qualitative research methods were applied to capture data from purposefully selected female entrepreneurs building manufacturing businesses. The results show that structural impediments, such as limited access to capital, restricted industrial networks, and cultural biases are accentuated for women by patriarchy. This hampers the growth and sustainability of woman-led businesses. The research also identifies the efforts by women to mitigate patriarchal restraints. Interventions include use of own financial resources, building social capital, implementing flexible leadership strategies, and accessing informal mentoring networks. The findings add to the wider discussion on gender and entrepreneurship, emphasising the need of inclusive policy measures such as gender-sensitive financial instruments and specialised entrepreneurial assistance programs. By combining theoretical ideas with empirical evidence, this study contributes to scholarship on women's entrepreneurial agency and the structural changes required to build a more equitable business environment.
New business models for South African waste handling equipment manufacturers
(University of Pretoria, 2025-03-04) Govender, Kruschen; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Mathebula, Bafana Boyce
This research explores the integration of sustainable business models in South African waste-handling equipment manufacturing, focusing on the adoption of Circular Economy (CE) principles and innovative technologies. Given the sector's challenges, including urbanrural infrastructure disparities and regulatory barriers, the study evaluates the potential benefits of circular and data-driven approaches. The research employs qualitative methods, including semi-structured interviews, to investigate business models, technological advancements, and regulatory influences. Findings reveal that South African manufacturers are beginning to adopt sustainable practices but face significant hurdles due to financial constraints, high technology costs, and a lack of skilled workers. Despite these challenges, embracing CE principles, automation, and AI-driven models could significantly enhance operational efficiency and sustainability. The study emphasises the need for supportive government policies and industry partnerships to overcome these barriers, fostering a more sustainable and resilient waste-handling industry in South Africa.
Sustainable business model innovation for South African municipalities in a changing South African energy landscape
(University of Pretoria, 2025-03-04) Kassier, Liesel; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Masuku, Linda Eugene
South African municipalities are at a crossroads regarding the relevance of their electricity business models, driven primarily by financial unsustainability, regulatory loopholes, and technological advancements. This study explores the options available to these municipalities for a seamless transition to a more decentralised energy model. A qualitative approach was employed, collecting data through in-depth interviews with public and private stakeholders. The findings highlighted significant barriers, such as declining revenue from locally generated electricity, insufficient regulatory support, and limited investment in information and communication technologies. The study outlined various adaptive measures, including Energy-as-a-Service (EaaS), innovative pricing structures, and initiatives supported by Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs). Successful adoption of relevant energy infrastructure necessitates collaboration among a diverse group of stakeholders, including Independent Power Producers (IPPs) and consumer prosumers. The insights gained from this research are crucial for policymakers, local government authorities, and industry stakeholders engaged in developing robust and economically viable electricity business models. Without essential structural reforms and investments in advanced technologies, municipal electricity departments in South Africa risk losing sustainability. This research contributes to the academic discourse on municipal energy sustainability, regulatory reforms, and new business models within the context of South Africa's evolving energy landscape.
Understanding organisational barriers to women's advancement into senior leadership in the South African mining industry
(University of Pretoria, 2025-03-04) Vermaak, Andre; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Marsh, Keletso Keatlegile
Despite legislative initiatives to promote gender diversity, women remain grossly under-represented in the top leadership of the South African mining industry. Organizational, cultural, and policy factors that serve as barriers to women's advancement into senior roles are described in this paper. Data was collected through an exploratory qualitative study design among male senior executives, human resource professionals, and female leaders in the mining industry. Results indicated that the systemic barriers that hinder the advancement of women, include the lack of inclusion in leadership networks, unconscious bias in talent development, and inflexible workplace cultures. Such barriers are increased by cultural norms and societal expectations and lagging compliance-driven gender policies in making meaningful changes at the organizational level. The report highlights the persistence of gendered leadership stereotypes and how inadequate the industry's present efforts are. This paper proposes targeted interventions that imply structured mentoring programmes, explicit requirements for promotion, and more robust accountability to resolve these aspects in mining organizations. Understanding the barriers to leadership advancement will enable mining houses to develop more sustainable talent pipeline of female leaders withing the industry.
Perceived trust and workplace proactive behaviour: An investigation into the moderating effect of unpredictability of the future
(University of Pretoria, 2025-03-04) Rowley, Colin; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Frew, David Anthony
This research sought to examine the relationship between Perceived Trust and Proactive Behaviour in the workplace, as well the influence that Unpredictability of the Future would have on this relationship. Using data collected from survey respondents employed in the South African manufacturing sector, Structural Equation Modelling was employed to model the relationships and examine the proposed hypothesis. This quantitative study was grounded on the theoretical framework of Self-determination Theory and asked research questions which were supplemented with the proposal of two hypotheses. Hypothesis 1, which proposed that Perceived Trust was positively and significantly related to Proactive Behaviour was supported, although only moderately in strength. Hypothesis 2, which proposed that Unpredictability of the Future would significantly moderate the relationship between Perceived Trust and Proactive Behaviour was not supported in that the relationship was not statistically significant. The findings of this study provide valuable insight for business leaders to appropriately define, support and develop their organisations. With an enhanced understanding of how Perceived Trust and Unpredictability of the Future affect motivation levels in the workplace, leaders are able to encourage Proactive Behaviour through enhancing the motivation levels in their teams.
Performance management systems and digital transformation in the manufacturing sector of Eswatini: The moderating role of leadership behaviours
(University of Pretoria, 2025-03-04) Rowley, Colin; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Dlamini, Mfundo Veletfu
The digitalisation of performance management systems has significantly changed how organisations make decisions as they now have access to real-time performance data. This enables data-driven decision making which aligns operations with strategic objectives. However, there is limited understanding of how leadership behaviours influence the successful implementation of digital performance management systems. The study examines how leadership behaviours influence the connection between performance management systems and digital transformation, in Eswatini's manufacturing industry. A cross-sectional quantitative research method was used to collect survey data form 126 managers in manufacturing firms in Eswatini. Pearson correlation and hierarchical regression analyses were used to evaluate four hypotheses. The findings indicate that leadership behaviours positively correlate with both performance management systems effectiveness and digital transformation. However, the results do not support the idea that leadership behaviours moderate the relationship between performance management systems and digital transformation. The findings offer practical insights for business leaders in Eswatini, highlighting the necessity for focused leadership development programs to support digital transformation in the manufacturing sector. However, concentrating on a single industry and geographic location limits the generalisability of the findings. Future research should consider longitudinal designs and comparative studies across various sectors to gain a deeper understanding of the role of leadership in digital transformation.
Leveraging gamification for competitive advantage: An exploratory study in South African manufacturing
(University of Pretoria, 2025-03-04) Barnes, Justin; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Dawood, Shiraz
Gamification, defined as the application of game design principles in non-game contexts, has gained increasing attention as a strategy for enhancing workforce engagement, motivation, and performance. While widely studied in sectors such as education, marketing, and human resource management, its application in manufacturing, particularly in South Africa, remains underexplored. Given the ongoing challenges within the South African manufacturing sector, ranging from declining productivity and skills shortages to disengaged workforces, this study investigates the potential of gamification as a strategic tool for competitive advantage, through the insights of business leaders. Using an exploratory qualitative research approach, this study examines leadership perceptions of gamification in South African manufacturing firms. Findings reveal that while gamification is recognised for its potential benefits, its adoption remains inconsistent, often limited to experimental or short-term initiatives rather than being fully embedded into business strategy. Key barriers include leadership uncertainty, cultural resistance, and misalignment with organisational priorities. However, findings suggest that successful gamification implementations are driven by strong leadership support, strategic alignment with business objectives, and an organisational culture that fosters engagement , ultimately enhancing workforce motivation and contributing to competitive advantage. The study aligns with existing literature that highlights gamification’s potential to improve motivation and engagement, but also challenges the assumption that adoption naturally progresses over time. Participants reflect a South African manufacturing sector that continue to treat gamification as an isolated experiment, lacking strategic alignment. This research contributes to the academic dialogue by contextualising gamification within the South African manufacturing sector, bridging the gap between theory and practice, and offering practical recommendations for overcoming adoption barriers.
The role of entrepreneurial resourcefulness in the context of sustaining business growth
(University of Pretoria, 2025-03-04) Myres, Kerrin; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Mosadi, Thabile
Entrepreneurship is related with a resource-constrained environment and a plethora of challenges. Despite these limitations, entrepreneurship is nevertheless viewed as an important component of economic growth and poverty reduction. Business expansion thus becomes a critical component of any economy. Entrepreneurial resourcefulness has been a determining factor of Small, Micro, and Medium Enterprises in a constrained environment. This study suggests that entrepreneurial resourcefulness is a learned behaviour that can be taught to entrepreneurs to sustain business growth. The study looks at the behaviours, characteristics, and orientations of resourceful entrepreneurs. The study takes a qualitative approach to assessing the experiences of entrepreneurs to find trends and patterns of resilience, adaptation, strategic decision making, and self-efficacy. Due to the narrative nature of the research, 12 semi-structured interviews were conducted with entrepreneurs who have been in business for more than 5 years in Gauteng, South Africa. The findings revealed that entrepreneurs used a combination of effectuation, bricolage, and entrepreneurial orientation to overcome financial, operational, and psychological barriers. The study's main themes are adaptability, strategic thinking, and resilience. Furthermore, the findings contributed to the body of entrepreneurship literature; the findings on understanding of the behaviours and characteristics that lead to entrepreneurial resourcefulness provide rich and substantial tools for assisting business owners in overcoming the challenges posed by limited resources. These findings resulted in the creation of a conceptual model for entrepreneurial resourcefulness that business managers, policymakers, and researchers may utilize to help SMMEs grow.
Exploring the influence of indigenous knowledge systems on entrepreneurial innovation: An emerging market perspectives in the context of South African women entrepreneurs
(University of Pretoria, 2025-03-04) Chipp, Kerry; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Lehasa, Kelebogile
This study explores the intersection of indigenous knowledge systems (IKS) and entrepreneurial innovation, focusing on South African women entrepreneurs. It examines how indigenous knowledge serves as a strategic resource in fostering innovation in emerging market settings. Research Purpose: The study investigates how women entrepreneurs in South Africa leverage indigenous knowledge to drive entrepreneurial innovation. It seeks to understand how these knowledge systems influence business practices, opportunity recognition, and innovation, particularly in environments where access to formal education and entrepreneurial resources is limited. Motivation for the Study: While entrepreneurship is widely acknowledged as a driver of economic development, mainstream literature often marginalises indigenous knowledge as an informal or peripheral factor. This study challenges that perspective by positioning IKS as a valuable asset in entrepreneurial innovation. Additionally, women’s entrepreneurial innovation remains underexplored in emerging markets, necessitating a deeper investigation into the mechanisms enabling their success. Research Approach/Design and Method: The study employs a qualitative research design, using semi-structured interviews with South African women entrepreneurs. Thematic analysis is used to identify key themes in the application of indigenous knowledge to business innovation. Effectuation theory serves as the theoretical framework, highlighting the role of existing knowledge, social networks, and adaptive decision-making in entrepreneurial innovation. Main Findings: Indigenous knowledge is a crucial enabler of innovation, providing women entrepreneurs with practical skills, market insights, and adaptive strategies that enhance business sustainability. The study identifies three key themes: (1) the role of inherited knowledge in shaping entrepreneurial practices, (2) adaptive business strategies and innovation driven by indigenous knowledge, and (3) the influence of socio-cultural dynamics on entrepreneurial decision-making. Practical/Managerial Implications: Recognising indigenous knowledge as a formal entrepreneurial resource can enhance business support frameworks, policy interventions, and entrepreneurship educational curricula. Policymakers and business development organisations should integrate indigenous knowledge into entrepreneurial training, to drive innovation and support programmes in attempts to foster economic growth. Contribution/Value-Add: The study contributes to entrepreneurial innovation literature by demonstrating how non-Western knowledge systems drive innovation in emerging markets. It expands effectuation theory by highlighting the role of indigenous knowledge in resource-limited entrepreneurial ecosystems. The findings offer practical insights for policymakers, educators, and business support institutions in fostering sustainable, locally driven innovation. (IKS) and entrepreneurial innovation, focusing on South African women entrepreneurs. It examines how indigenous knowledge serves as a strategic resource in fostering innovation in emerging market settings. Research Purpose: The study investigates how women entrepreneurs in South Africa leverage indigenous knowledge to drive entrepreneurial innovation. It seeks to understand how these knowledge systems influence business practices, opportunity recognition, and innovation, particularly in environments where access to formal education and entrepreneurial resources is limited. Motivation for the Study: While entrepreneurship is widely acknowledged as a driver of economic development, mainstream literature often marginalises indigenous knowledge as an informal or peripheral factor. This study challenges that perspective by positioning IKS as a valuable asset in entrepreneurial innovation. Additionally, women’s entrepreneurial innovation remains underexplored in emerging markets, necessitating a deeper investigation into the mechanisms enabling their success. Research Approach/Design and Method: The study employs a qualitative research design, using semi-structured interviews with South African women entrepreneurs. Thematic analysis is used to identify key themes in the application of indigenous knowledge to business innovation. Effectuation theory serves as the theoretical framework, highlighting the role of existing knowledge, social networks, and adaptive decision-making in entrepreneurial innovation. Main Findings: Indigenous knowledge is a crucial enabler of innovation, providing women entrepreneurs with practical skills, market insights, and adaptive strategies that enhance business sustainability. The study identifies three key themes: (1) the role of inherited knowledge in shaping entrepreneurial practices, (2) adaptive business strategies and innovation driven by indigenous knowledge, and (3) the influence of socio-cultural dynamics on entrepreneurial decision-making. Practical/Managerial Implications: Recognising indigenous knowledge as a formal entrepreneurial resource can enhance business support frameworks, policy interventions, and entrepreneurship educational curricula. Policymakers and business development organisations should integrate indigenous knowledge into entrepreneurial training, to drive innovation and support programmes in attempts to foster economic growth. Contribution/Value-Add: The study contributes to entrepreneurial innovation literature by demonstrating how non-Western knowledge systems drive innovation in emerging markets. It expands effectuation theory by highlighting the role of indigenous knowledge in resource-limited entrepreneurial ecosystems. The findings offer practical insights for policymakers, educators, and business support institutions in fostering sustainable, locally driven innovation.
Exploring influencee resonance with social media influencers
(University of Pretoria, 2025-03-04) Kleyn, Nicola; ichelp@gibs.co.za; Kramer, Loren Beth
The rise of social media has redefined consumer engagement, with social media influencers (SMIs) emerging as powerful intermediaries shaping audience behaviours, perceptions and brand relationships. This study explores influencee resonance, focusing on the psychological, social, and narrative factors that drive varying levels of connection between influencees and influencers. Resonance determines the depth and longevity of the influencee-influencer relationship, shaping not only engagement patterns but also the extent to which influencees internalise, trust, and act upon the content they consume. It investigates how authenticity, transparency, shared experiences, values, and aspirations contribute to the strength of resonance, influencing consumer trust and engagement. Using a qualitative, exploratory research design, this researcher conducted semi-structured interviews with twelve South African social media users, applying thematic analysis via ATLAS.ti to identify patterns in influencee-influencer relationships. Findings reveal that authenticity, consistency, and relatability are fundamental to deep resonance, fostering long-term trust and engagement. Influencees who experience deep resonance often integrate influencers into their self-identity, drawing personal inspiration and validation from their content. Conversely, shallow resonance is driven by entertainment or aesthetic appeal, with engagement remaining passive and transient. Factors such as perceived inauthenticity, commercialisation, and misalignment with audience expectations diminish resonance, leading to disengagement. This study contributes to theoretical discourse on digital influence by applying Parasocial Relationship Theory, Social Influence Theory and applying the model of Brand Resonance to explain the evolving nature of influencee-influencer dynamics and introducing a typology for the types of resonance. From a practical perspective, the findings provide actionable insights for brands and influencers, emphasising the need to foster genuine connections, maintain narrative consistency, and align content with audience values to enhance engagement, loyalty, and consumer-brand trust in influencer marketing.

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