Abstract
This qualitative Delphi study explores the lived experiences of women in the events sector and their perceptions regarding their routes into entrepreneurial careers. It focuses on the interplay of an adverse workplace culture and persistent, negative gender regimes within the events sector that create barriers to career development that consequently motivate women to enter entrepreneurship. The findings reveal that women often perceive their entrepreneurial journey through a negative lens, viewing themselves as necessity rather than opportunity entrepreneurs due to their past experiences in a sector where the patriarchy persists in practice. This research contributes to the understanding of how personal perceptions and negative work environments shape women's entrepreneurial identities and motivations, ultimately calling for further research into the dynamics of gender and entrepreneurship in the events sector.