This qualitative phenomenological study used semi-structured interviews to collect data from Bahamian female leaders and academics in higher education in The Bahamas. The purpose of this research study was to highlight the lived experiences of these women to uncover the challenges that they face, and the strategies employed by them to overcome such challenges. A review of the literature on women working in higher education revealed that there is a lack of research on women leaders and academics in higher education in the Caribbean. Purposive sampling was used and {8} women who were employed at the University of The Bahamas and who had a wealth of experience working in higher education in The Bahamas were interviewed for this study. Data analysis was conducted using the NVivo 12 analytical software. Transcribed interviews were coded and analyzed to determine the challenges participants reported facing and how they manage such challenges. The findings revealed that, familial challenges are the primary challenges faced by participants in the study. Participants stressed the importance of prioritization and placing family first as keys to managing the complexities of balancing professional and family life on a daily basis. Further findings revealed that, participants felt there are things that the university can do to assist female leaders and academics including formal mentorship, institution wide succession planning and increased opportunities for professional development. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]