Hendricks Booysen

All for second chances

Words: Lungisa Mnqwazi

Hendricks, 47, sells The Big Issue around District Six and entrepreneurship is nothing new to him, as he once owned a videography business.

“The Big Issue is like family to me; the staff are always willing to help. Before selling the magazine, I had a business of my own as a videographer for events and also fixed broken video cameras. That all went down the drain due to my alcohol abuse problem, which resulted in me selling all the equipment I had to feed my cravings.

“Things spiralled out of control, resulting in the loss of my business. I ended up having no place to stay until City Bowl Church came to my rescue. The church accommodated me and assisted with some groceries. I still reside there till I’m able to get back on my feet again,” says Hendricks.

Hendricks came to Cape Town, leaving loved ones behind to seek greener pastures.

“All was well until I started to abuse alcohol but I have been sober for a year now, thanks to The Big Issue for all the moral support. The magazine, its entrepreneurs, staff and customers bring new meaning to life and I’ll forever be grateful. A friend, also a Big Issue entrepreneur, introduced me to the magazine. I was a loner, but through this publication, I have people to talk to about my problems instead of turning to the bottle.

“I’m working towards saving up some money and regaining strength to rebuild my business and equipment again from the ground up,” he concludes.