The career development of Mamphela Ramphele: A psychobiographical approach

Orientation: Dr Mamphela Ramphele is a prominent South African activist whose career development amid apartheid and post-apartheid struggles holds great significance from an industrial and organisational psychology perspective. Research purpose: The purpose of the study was to examine the career development of Dr Mamphela Ramphele. Motivation for the study: This study provides an example of the successful career development of an extraordinary black woman, which can be viewed as a role model for career-oriented women in South Africa today. Research approach/design and method: This qualitative study uses a psychobiographical approach and applies the Greenhaus model of career development to understand Ramphele’s career development throughout her life. The sampling followed a purposive sampling technique and used content analysis. Main findings: The findings show that Ramphele’s career development is influenced by factors such as the influence of apartheid laws, social, familial and cultural factors, personal loss, economic challenges, activism and academic pursuit, criticisms and resilience and independent thinking. Practical/managerial implications: This psychobiographical study may guide industrial and organisational psychologists and career counsellors in understanding the challenges of black women developing their careers. Contribution/value-add: The contribution of this study is to present an in depth understanding of the career development of an extraordinary black woman during apartheid and in post-apartheid South Africa. Also, this study contributes to the body of literature on psychobiographies of black women activists in South Africa. It may help industrial and organisational psychologists in South Africa to understand the unique challenges faced by black women during apartheid, the transition into post-apartheid South Africa and beyond.