Florence Godongwana

Words and Photography by Yonga Balfour

“I started as a Big Issue entrepreneur in 2010 when I decided to close my tavern business in Town 2, Khayelitsha, which I had started in 1998. It was a success but it came with consequences, as it had burnt down twice. Fire is life-threatening and I had to think of my safety and that of my family, which is why I made a decision to close the business.

“Since selling The Big Issue, I have had peaceful nights. When I had the tavern I’d have to close late, and do stock takes and cash ups at night, putting me at risk of being robbed. Also, I wouldn’t sleep well because I would worry that the place would be burgled at night or catch fire again, but now I sleep like a baby. I have fewer worries and I’m able to spend time with my children and husband.