This article presents a phenomenological study of the leadership experiences of Black women through the lens of self-determination theory. Self-determination theory (SDT) suggests people can grow and change when their needs for competence, connection, and autonomy are  fulfilled; once those needs are met, people become self-determined (Ryan & Deci, 2017). The researcher designed this qualitative study on the  conceptual framework of self-determination theory to understand the success factors associated with Black women. Semi-structured interviews  were conducted with twelve Black women leaders living or working in Virginia. Three main themes emerged during data analysis corresponding with self-determination theory: (1) relatedness/support, (2) autonomy/authenticity, and (3) competence/confidence. 

Keywords: Black women leaders, self-determination theory, motivation