Conceptualising an Afrocentric Model of Resilience Among Black Rural Adolescents in Limpopo, South Africa

Globally, adolescents face challenges such as poverty, violence, and geopolitical tensions that impact their psychosocial well-being. However, some show resilience, which may vary in terms of culture and context. This study explored the resilience of Black adolescents in rural Limpopo, South Africa. The study focused on the Vhavenda, Vatsonga, and Balobedu cultural groups. The aim was to create a culturally relevant theoretical framework for understanding their resilience. Using an exploratory qualitative design rooted in constructivist grounded theory and semi-structured focus group interviews, the study involved 38 participants aged 12–17 years and eight community advisory panel members. Results indicated that these adolescents encountered psychosocial adversities such as poverty, parental loss, poor school environments, and cultural challenges. They exhibited resilience through personal agency, community support, and a mix of traditional and modern coping strategies. Findings emphasise the importance of cultural values and environmental factors in shaping resilience. Recommendations include resilience-building interventions tailored to suit their unique challenges and cultural contexts. This research contributes to theory by presenting an Afrocentric Resilience Model and enhances understanding of adolescent resilience in rural South Africa while offering insights for improving psychosocial support services and informing policy for vulnerable adolescents.