We have launched The Big Issue Winter Drive and invite all our readers to round up their relatives and friends to knit scarves, blankets and beanies for our valued vendors. Our aim is to have all our vendors sporting your fluffy creations on Tuesday, 18 July, which is International Mandela Day. See page 18 for more details on how you can get involved.

Talking about Mandela Day, philanthropist Carolyn Steyn shares details of her journey with the 67 Blankets initiative, which she founded to honour the memory of the late Nelson Mandela.

If you’re looking for inspiration to do good this month, you’re in for a big treat. This issue is packed with stories of inspirational people and initiatives that are making a difference in people’s lives and contributing to nature conservation.

First up is Janice Ashby, founder of The Rhinos are Coming!!! initiative that involves (for now) eight life-sized rhinos that are turning the spotlight on rhino poaching in South Africa. Another outstanding individual featured in this issue is entrepreneur Buhle Sithola, who is taking the big screen, solar-powered cinema-in-a-box to underprivileged communities in Khayelitsha.

We’ve also rounded up a variety of things to see and do to help you unwind. Don’t forget to pull out our Little Issue feature and share it with your kids. We wouldn’t want your children to miss out on any of the fun.