Vol. 1 No. 1 (2026)

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Navigating New Terrains: A Survey of Cultural Adaptation, Resilience, and Leadership Among Angolan Migrant Women in Southern Africa

Isabela Njinga Mbande, Catholic University of Angola Sofia Kapango, Catholic University of Angola Sheila Reynolds, Agostinho Neto University, Luanda Miss Beth Watson, Catholic University of Angola
DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.18921870
Published: February 17, 2026

Abstract

This survey research investigates the processes of cultural adaptation and the mechanisms of resilience employed by Angolan migrant women within Southern African host societies. It presents a mixed-methods analysis of data from a structured survey of 300 participants, examining key factors including social network formation, economic integration strategies, and the negotiation of cultural identity. The findings demonstrate that these women employ multifaceted resilience strategies, which are significantly influenced by the strength of their transnational and local social ties. Crucially, the analysis delineates the pivotal role of women’s leadership in community-based organisations for fostering cohesion and navigating systemic barriers. The study contributes a nuanced, gendered perspective to migration literature in the African context. It concludes with evidence-based insights for policymakers, suggesting that integration frameworks must formally recognise and support these informal leadership structures and resilience mechanisms to enhance migrant welfare and social cohesion.

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Isabela Njinga Mbande, Sofia Kapango, Sheila Reynolds, Miss Beth Watson (2026). Navigating New Terrains: A Survey of Cultural Adaptation, Resilience, and Leadership Among Angolan Migrant Women in Southern Africa. African Journal of Women in Leadership and Governance, Vol. 1 No. 1 (2026). https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18921870
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Keywords

Angolan diasporaGendered migrationCultural adaptationCommunity resilienceWomen's leadershipSouthern AfricaSocial integration

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Vol. 1 No. 1 (2026)
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