The Big Issue #257

  • 6 to 26 October
In this issue, we feature professional surfer Matt Bromley. Matt, who hails from Kommetjie, has been surfing up a storm, chasing the world’s biggest waves. It seems that there’s no stopping this inspiring young man (see page 14).

Matt is a huge fan of and an ambassador for the 9Miles Project, which teaches children to be leaders in their community. The organisation was founded by Nigel Savel, who spends his days teaching youngsters how to surf the waves of life (see page 18).

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.

And, what would an issue be without our valued Big Issue vendors? This month, we speak to vendors Eric Mkhunkga and Patrick Nqayi, and showcase a selection of vendor art pieces.

Look out for details of our Big Issue Back-to-School Drive, in aid of our vendors’ children (see page 37).

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Patrick Nqayi

Patrick Nqayi (47), our vendor of the month, sells The Big Issue on Ladies Mile Road in Constantia. The father of four tells us about becoming financially savvy and giving great customer service.

Eric Mkhunkqa

“I enjoy being a Big Issue entrepreneur as I get to meet new people everyday. I sell The Big Issue in Wynberg opposite Wynberg Park. My customers are mostly elderly and are always eager to buy the magazine.”

Surf’s up at 9 Miles

“Going the distance means no man is left behind. It means no child is left unloved and that no community is left untouched.” These words from Nigel Savel, founder of 9Miles Project, are more than just a saying with a nice ring to it. They’re what fuel his passion to teach young people to surf and walk on the proverbial water.

Get artside

Cape Town’s art scene is one of the most vibrant in the country. With massive growth in the industry, galleries are finding new ways to get punters interested in their works. We take a look at some of the Mother City’s best alternative art spots.

Uganda’s great apes

When photographer Gerhard Pretorius set off to capture Uganda’s great apes, the last thing he expected was to see his own reflection in the faces of these beasts. He shares his encounters with Uganda’s chimps and gorillas in the first of a two-part series.

N is for nice, and Napier

The picturesque town of Napier sits among magnificent rolling green hills of the Overberg, just two hours outside of Cape Town. Take a drive out to this sublime country village at the foot of the Soetmuisberg for good times, good food and good fun.

Craig sings his way to the top

Craig Lucas, winner of The Voice SA talks to us about his cheerful childhood in Elsiesriver, love for his family, and more.

Letting go, again and again

Thomas Bisig listens. He listens to complete strangers on the street, allowing them to talk about whatever they wish. Listening to strangers is the reason he left his finance job three and a half years ago. He hasn’t looked back.

Hidden gems

We couldn’t resist sharing a few hidden gems to visit in the Mother City during Tourism Month.

Gathering strands with Lionel Davis

In honour of Lionel Davis’ 81st birthday, the Iziko Museums of South Africa and the District Six Musuem have come together to exhibit the work of this artist, educator anti-apartheid activist and former political prisoner.

Daisy crazy

Harsha Gordhan takes a trip up the West Coast with four of her friends to experience some fl ower power in the blossoming Namaqualand.

Heritage sights to treasure

There’s more to Cape Town than the picture-perfect views and rolling vineyards. In celebration of Heritage Month, we take a closer look at some of the city’s most popular destinations and landmarks.

Wonderful Nomntu

Big Issue vendor, Nomntu Gogotya, is an entrepreneur extraordinaire. The Big Issue isn’t the only thing her customers are after; they can’t get enough of her Wonderbags either. We take a look at the seamstress’ booming bag business.

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