The Entrepreneurs Behind The Magazine
Big Issue vendors are independent entrepreneurs who run their own small businesses by selling the magazine.
Vendors register with The Big Issue and agree to a professional code of conduct. They are supported through regular meetings, training workshops and community programmes.
These gatherings allow vendors to share experiences from their selling locations, learn new skills and receive support where needed.
The Big Issue also provides practical support such as access to social services, training opportunities and development programmes designed to improve long-term stability.
A significant proportion of our vendors are women, and The Big Issue South Africa has the highest percentage of female vendors among street papers in the International Network of Street Papers.
Every vendor has a story
Some vendors use their earnings to support children in school. Others are rebuilding their lives after difficult circumstances. Many support extended families through the income they generate.
Vendor stories highlight the determination, resilience and achievements of the people who are part of The Big Issue community.
If you make children happy now, you’ll make them happy in 20 years’ time. This is what Victorian educator and author Kate Douglas Wiggin believed, and so do we. At The Big Issue we always try to look after our vendors’ families and their well-being.
August 22, 2023
The Big Issue family is deeply saddened by the passing of vendor Xolani Nkomityhoboza in December 2020. Xolani worked as a vendor in Claremont for more than 10 years and also held a satellite station for The Big
February 25, 2021
Relatives and friends of the late Nofezile Ndabeni paid their final respects when The Big Issue vendor was laid to rest on 11 July in Ngcobo, Eastern Cape.
July 24, 2020
42-year-old mother of four and former Big Issue vendor Monica Vuka is a living testimony to the belief that we should always follow our passion and do our utmost to make our dreams come true.
January 20, 2020
Lavista Ntshoza is breaking boundaries to ensure that he moves forward in life and become the tour guide he has always dreamed of
June 26, 2019