Principal Challenges in the Gauteng Region of South Africa

• In Event: 34.078 - Roundtable Session 13
  In Roundtable Session: 34.078-18 - Critical Perspectives on Key Issues in Black Education

Abstract

Gender bias towards South African female principals remains a problem and compelling issue. The South African Constitution addresses gender equality, yet women still do not experience equal rights in practice. Using a theory of intersectionality, this study highlights the experience of three Black South African female principals. The project involves semi-structured interviews. The results provide a significant contribution to the small body of literature employing intersectionality theory as well as the literature around Black female principals’ experiences in South Africa. Sub-intersectional themes emerged providing a deeper understanding of their experiences, challenges and successes, which are: social capital, family, religion, community, career, and discrimination.

Authors

• Michele Schmidt, Simon Fraser University

• Raj Mestry, University of Johannesburg