Embroidering resistance: The development of a female social enterprise in a quilombola community in Ceará, Brazil

Study objective: The purpose of this research is to analyze the organizational, cultural, and community factors that have influenced the development of the Coletivo Bordando Resistência in the quilombola community of Alto Alegre (Horizonte, Ceará), examining the context in which the social enterprise originated, the social actors involved, the sustainability strategies adopted, and the ways in which challenges are addressed. Methodology/approach: The research employs a qualitative and descriptive approach, using a single case study strategy. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six members of the collective, and data were analyzed using Content Analysis techniques. Main results: The findings indicate that the collective has a significant impact on identity reinforcement, appreciation of quilombola culture, and income generation for women in vulnerable contexts. Relevance/originality: The study addresses a theoretical gap by exploring the intersection of social entrepreneurship, quilombola culture, and female autonomy, offering a situated and interdisciplinary perspective on practices of resistance and empowerment. Theoretical/methodological contributions: The study contributes to the field of social entrepreneurship by presenting an empirical case that integrates symbolic, cultural, and economic dimensions. Methodologically, it proposes analytical categories that may be applied in other community entrepreneurship contexts. Social/managerial contributions: The research underscores the importance of quilombola women's leadership in building solidarity networks, preserving collective memory, and fostering sustainable development. It also emphasizes the need for public policies and institutional recognition to strengthen such initiatives.