The Experience of Black Women from Low to Medium Socio-Economic Environment with the Increased Need of Use of Technology for Occupational Participation during the COVID-19 pandemic_

Abstract

Background: The pandemic swiftly accelerated the demand for technology usage, prompting numerous operations and professions to adapt, maintain connectivity, and sustain productivity. It is essential to recognise the disproportionate impact of this transition on marginalised communities, particularly Black women in South Africa. This study aimed to shed light on Black women's experiences in South Africa regarding their engagement with technology. Considering the intersections of gender and race in their lived experiences, there is a paucity of evidence of how Black women from low to medium socio-economic statuses experienced the increased need for technology during the COVID-19 pandemic concerning occupational justice. Method: Subjective experiences are a qualitative phenomenon. Consequently, qualitative research was adopted to gain insights. This study was approached from an interpretivist, constructive, and feminist paradigm and adopted a qualitative descriptive research design. Ten Black women from low to medium socio-economic environments were interviewed. The participants provided vignettes of their experiences through semi-structured interviews and pictures, which were recorded and transcribed. The data was thematically analysed. This study used semi-structured interviews with the population to capture Black women's diverse narratives. Findings: Three themes and three categories emerged from the analysis. The themes are 1) You are on your own; 2) Existential discomfort as well as 3) Transition and human adaptability. These themes encompass the experiences the participants shared in relation to the objectives of the study. Under these themes, the following categories were established: Systemic unpreparedness, Existential discomfort, and Figuring out how we gonna do it. v Conclusion: The findings highlighted the disparities that were faced by the participants in accessing and utilising technology, unveiling the complex layers of digital exclusion stemming from socio-economic constraints, educational disparities, and structural inequalities whilst recognising the adaptive strategies and resilience exhibited by these women in navigating the digital divide. Black women are afforded protection only when their experiences align with those of other groups; in cases where their experiences diverge, Black women may anticipate limited or no protection. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the intricate relationship between technology and the lived experiences of Black women in South Africa. It provides some insights for policymakers and communities to implement inclusive and equitable strategies that address the digital divide and promote empowerment within this demographic.