You see them in Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town, usually at traffic lights: Men and women selling The Big Issue Magazine. Just before your drive on: There are at least two reasons why you should consider buying a copy.

First, this publication, through entertaining and informative articles, unfolds what is going on in South African society. Second, it plays a vital role in this particular society; Thanks to The Big Issue, many homeless and socially excluded South Africans have an income and a prospect of a brighter future.

Read articles of The Big Issue on CapeTownMagazine.com

Third, the Big Issue is simply a great magazine. Its content is written by qualified journalists and feature writers and consists of entertaining and informative articles on social developments, health issues, cultural topics and everything else that may play a role in South African society. Some of the topics addressed the last year were mixed marriages, the widening gap between rich and poor, the South African freedom of press, anti-globalization and South African private prisons.

Apart from being a great magazine The Big Issue, as mentioned above,  is a initiative with a great mission; the empowerment of socially excluded South Africans. Despite the many improvements and positive developments after the fall of apartheid in 1994, many South Africans still struggle with issues as poverty, unemployment, illiteracy, inadequate housing and poor medical facilities. The Big Issue aims to improve their lives, to restore their damaged spirits and to strengthen their self-esteem.

For one thing, the magazine provides an income as vendors - or entrepreneurs, as TBI calls them - keep half of every sold copy. Secondly, vendors are given the opportunity to participate in programs where they are trained, taught, empowered and equipped to find permanent jobs and housing. The Big Issue for instance assists those who wish to undergo further education and training in order to realize long-term career goals.

Vendors can also turn to TBI for support and advice on issues - HIV/Aids for instance, or violence, disabilities, and low self-esteem - that might divert them away from generating an income.

So, when driving in Cape Town, Durban or Johannesburg and you spot a Big Issue vendor at the traffic light, take that chance. By purchasing the magazine (R10.95) you not only discover what is going on in South African society, you also help disadvantaged South Africans in their fight for a brighter future.

Source: Miriam Mannak

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