Abstract
This qualitative research elucidates how selected social entrepreneurs in rural Philippines view sustainable development within their local community. Data was gathered through in-depth interviews and site visits of purposively selected traditional craft social entrepreneurs. Thematic analysis revealed that the participants’ sustainability perceptions and practices focus on serving local communities and preserving local culture and tradition. As social enterprises, their people and culture-centric mission are the foundation that determines their focus. Whatever challenges they experience, they return to their strong, clear, and enduring “why,” which serves as a reminder. They emphasize building trust and genuine partnerships with their local communities and supporters. They know too well that an enterprise that seeks to serve indigenous people and preserve their culture needs to put their local artisans at the center and listen to their needs and interests. Despite their challenges, they are committed to serving their communities and preserving their cultural traditions. They hope to gain more support from government agencies, social organizations, and other communities to continue their endeavor. This case study offers baseline information that could help various stakeholders better understand what types of support traditional craft social enterprises based in rural communities need. Moreover, this study highlights entrepreneurial ventures that do not normally get exposure. It brings awareness of how different rural communities strive to keep their culture and traditions alive through craft-making.
Presenters
Aurora LligeStudent, PhD in International Studies (Development Cooperation), Ewha Womans University, Seoul Teugbyeolsi, South Korea
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
Civic, Political, and Community Studies
KEYWORDS
Rural Community, Community-building, Traditional Craft, Sustainable Development, Social Entrepreneurship
