Male executives' experiences of mentoring Black African women in South Africa

Purpose This study explored the motives, relationship dynamics and outcomes of male executives in mentoring Black African women within context South Africa. The authors investigated experiences White, African, coloured, Indian mentors conducting cross-gender cross-race Design/methodology/approach A qualitative was conducted with 21 Africa's male-dominated financial services industry. Data were collected via semi-structured, one-on-one virtual video interviews. endeavoured to deeper understand mentors' during their interactions intersecting marginalised identities as protégés. Findings found that is central women. often influenced by parental approach mentoring, resultant negative consequences, including protégé not taking accountability for driving relationship. Mentors' stereotypical expectations homemakers carers also experiences. motives included growing next generation leaders, which led job satisfaction. Originality/value contributes an account executives' motivations women, well experiences, protégés mentors. Intersectionality theory used highlight lack insight into unique context, where inequalities terms class, race, gender are amplified.