Empoderamento feminino por meio do empreendedorismo na fronteira Oiapoque / Guiana Francesa

Abstract

Female entrepreneurship along the border between Oiapoque (Brazil) and French Guiana emerges as a strategic instrument of social and economic transformation in a territory shaped by transnational dynamics and persistent inequalities. This study aimed to analyze how entrepreneurial activity contributes to women’s empowerment in this frontier context, identifying both opportunities and challenges. Employing a qualitative and descriptive approach, the research was conducted through interviews with four local women entrepreneurs, complemented by a bibliographic review. Findings reveal that entrepreneurship not only provides income but also strengthens self-esteem, autonomy in personal and financial decisions, and social recognition. The originality of this study lies in unveiling how, within an international border setting, female entrepreneurship operates as a practice of resistance and identity affirmation, despite obstacles such as informality, limited access to credit, and gender inequality. It concludes that female entrepreneurship plays a crucial role in the social and economic development of Oiapoque, directly fostering women’s empowerment and reinforcing the vitality of the local economy.