Unlocking Potential: An Analysis of the Key Predictors of Labour Force Participation Among African Immigrant Women in Canada

Abstract

This study investigates the key predictors of labour force participation among African immigrant women in Canada. It addresses a gap in the current literature that often generalizes the experiences of all Black immigrant women, including those from highly developed economies. Using data from the 2021 Census Public Use Microdata File (PUMF) on individuals, this research explores the socio-demographic factors influencing employment outcomes, specifically educational attainment, language proficiency, and marital status. The findings reveal that higher educational qualifications and proficiency in both official Canadian languages significantly enhance the likelihood of labour force participation for African immigrant women. In contrast, marital status presents a complex relationship, with never-married women showing greater participation rates than their married counterparts. This research contributes to our understanding of the unique experiences of African immigrant women. It expands knowledge on the broader discourse on immigration, diversity, and economic integration in Canada.