Belonging as a part of the pathway to working life: immigrant women’s experiences in Sweden

Abstract Background Coming to a new society involves complex processes of incorporating change into immigrants’ lives. For many immigrant women, participating in working life is a crucial period of transition into a new society, offering opportunities for improved life. Objective : Therefore, this study aims to explore the pathways to working life experienced by immigrant women in Sweden, with a particular focus on the experience of belonging. Method A total of 11 immigrant women from five different non-European countries were interviewed. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. The concepts of cultural, relational, sensory and temporal belonging were used in the analysis to interpret experiences of pathways to working life. Results Overall, the immigrant women described the pathway into the working life as a central part of their integration process. However, it was often complex and challenging. Experiences of cultural belonging included learning the Swedish language and understanding the workplace culture. Relational belonging, in the form of giving and receiving support and forming social networks, played a crucial role in shaping one’s sense of belonging. Sensory belonging was about feeling accepted and being a valued member of the workplace. Finally, temporal belonging involved the woman reflecting on a journey spanning time, showing a clear sense of progression toward a future goal. Conclusion To include and support immigrant women throughout their pathways to working life requires workplaces to enhance cultural, relational, sensory and temporal belonging. Such measures can promote the possibilities of integration in working life.