Halimatu Sadiah. Women entrepreneurship and ecological communication in the lisu ethnic community, Chiang Rai Province. Master's Degree(Social Science). Chiang Mai University. Library. : Chiang Mai University, 2569.
Women entrepreneurship and ecological communication in the lisu ethnic community, Chiang Rai Province
Abstract:
A distinctive perspective on how ethnic women contribute to ecological problems is provided by the nexus of women entrepreneurship and ecological communication. The Lisu ethnic community in Doi Chang Village, Mae Suey District, Chiang Rai Province, is the subject of this study. As the Doi Chang coffee community has existed for more than 30 years, the Lisu, particularly women, have also been involved in coffee-related enterprises. The growth of the coffee industry in the area has provided more opportunities for them. Nevertheless, it has also contributed to ecological problems that are exacerbated by climate change. The objectives of this study are: (1) to understand Lisu womens perception about ecological communication, (2) to examine entrepreneurship as a tactic of ecological communication that has been used by Lisu women to negotiate with the public, and (3) to evaluate women entrepreneurship impacts on gender relations within the community. Data was collected through in-depth interviews, non-participant observation, and participant observation. Additionally, secondary data and questionnaires were also used in this study. The findings show that through ecological communication, Lisu women help raise awareness by communicating their ecological problems with the public while reshaping gender relations and asserting agency. Both their Lisu Indigenous knowledge and entrepreneurial experiences gave them the advantage of developing strategic long-term solutions. They are turning forest protection into a collective responsibility as well as a tactic for securing livelihoods and gaining recognition. Moreover, by integrating Lisu Indigenous knowledge, they include eco-friendly practices in facing ecological problems, demonstrating that economic participation and cultural identity can coexist harmoniously. Lisu Indigenous knowledge remains important, but it is flexible and can be merged with new knowledge. Meanwhile, their involvement in entrepreneurship has redefined Lisu femininity, allowing them to embody strength, creativity, and cultural continuity beyond traditional gender attributes. Entrepreneurship has also served as a tool for empowerment, enabling them to advocate for equality. Compared to the past, Lisu women now hold greater visibility within their families and communities. Their agency reflects how women-led entrepreneurship drives alternative development models that integrate rapid economic growth with ecological sustainability. This study enhances the understanding of Lisu womens experiences by exploring the intersections of ecological communication, women entrepreneurship, and gender relations.