Abstract
The study focused on examining the perceptions of dual-career couples at a stateowned
company about the influence of taking maternity and paternity leave on the career
progression of black African women in middle management and leadership occupations.
Research purpose: The primary purpose of the study was to identify core barriers in relation
to maternity and paternity leave that contribute negatively in the career progression of black
African women in dual-career couples.
Motivation for the study: To obtain insight into the underrepresentation and progression of
black African women within dual-career couples, in middle management and leadership
occupations.
Research design, approach and method: This study was qualitative, comprising a sample of
10 black African women and 10 black African men, with data collected through in-depth semistructured
interviews. Thematic analysis was utilised to analyse the interview dialogues.