Abstract
M.Com. (Industrial Psychology)
The entry of women into the labour market typifies, for example, male resistance, stereotypical adversaries and gender discrimination. Progressing from no work at all historically, to finally gaining entry into the workplace and being in most occupational fields in the contemporary era, colours an unparalleled female determination. The objective of this study was to examine women‟s reasons for engaging in the world of work in a knowledge organisation. Following a qualitative approach, data were collected by means of semi-structured interviews conducted face-to-face with seven female participants from various knowledge environments in Gauteng. The sample for the study comprised Black and Coloured working women with formal training and fulltime employment in a knowledge environment. By means of thematic analysis, 14 abstract themes emerged, derived from the narratives of research participants voicing the reasons why they engage in fulltime employment. These themes suggest that work as a source of income gives women financial independence to maintain a certain lifestyle and to provide financially for the family. Furthermore, work empowers women, enhances their self-esteem and self-worth and gives them a sense of meaning and purpose in life. The study aims to be of value to various professionals, including industrial psychologists, career psychologists and human resource practitioners, providing knowledge and guidance on how to address current and future challenges on how to accommodate women in the workplace. Organisations successfully addressing these challenges will reap the benefit of women‟s contribution to goal achievement and success of the organisation.