The Big Issue

High quality, varied and entertaining content for readers across age, culture, religion, gender and other demographics. Stories include reporting on local and international happenings with a ‘bigger issue’ about an individual, and unusual news or events that impact us all. The Big Issue shares in-depth interviews with local and international celebrities, artists, change-makers and thought leaders. It also focuses on local people or organisations committed to making positive changes in society – intent on finding innovative ways to effect change.

The Big Issue

MOTHER EARTH = LIFE

STEADY QUOTES TO KEEP YOU GROUNDED

A WORTHWHILE SMILE • Our vendors are solely dependent on the profit they make when selling The Big Issue. The money is vital for their welfare and goes a long way. Please support with a smile and wave which goes even further and is most appreciated!

FAREWELL AND THANK YOU • When they say time flies when you are having fun, they certainly mean it. My journey at The Big Issue started about two years ago and it still feels like yesterday …

IN CONVERSATION WITH Jonathan Kellerman • It’s Jonathan Kellerman’s curiosity that drives the exploration of human behaviour in his novels. In an exclusive interview with Jonathan, the author spoke to Lauren McDiarmid about the evolution of his ideas, the distinction between good and evil, and the brand-new book in his Alex Delaware series, The Ghost Orchid.

To Shock and Surprise • Alex Michaelides is masterful when it comes to the plot twist, as anyone who’s read his books will know. Lauren McDiarmid chatted to Alex about how he goes about crafting these twists and turns, and the creative process behind his new thriller, The Fury.

Empowering beauty, one product at a time…

Eco Advocates • Wild about the African bush: three young conservation heroes highlight the importance of getting kids hooked on nature.

A piece of pizza • Circle the pizzas that match the fractions.

Help Teacher Tsepho • Organise the children into groups

Silly jokes and riddles

An enigma in her own right • For more than three decades, you would certainly have heard the voice of beloved Mzansi radio DJ Shado Twala gracing our airwaves. You’ve most likely seen her judging SA’s Got Talent or, if you’re that lucky, had the pleasure of meeting her in person.

How the mighty fall • It took 16 years but South Africa has impeached a senior judge – who is John Hlophe and what went wrong?

Laundry offers free showers to homeless people • LaundReCycle is energy and water self-sufficient. It has been running since 2021 at the Streetscapes Urban Farm in Cape Town.

Time for a feminist movement? • Professor Amanda Gouws investigates Louise du Toit, a Stellenbosch University philosopher’s four explanations, that are often offered as an explanation for gender based violence. However, each theory on its own still cannot explain the roots of gender violence in South Africa.

More rationing of essentials • More rationing is on the cards and South Africans are being squeezed to afford basic essentials necessary for survival. Many skip meals, others pay bills late or not at all, and others forgo basic healthcare. Mamapudi Nkgadima, MD of African Response pens her thoughts.

Curbing GBV early • “Umuthi ugotshwa usemanzi” – Meaning: to bend the stick, you need to do it when it is still wet. How we talk to young boys is key to curbing the gender-based violence scourge in South Africa.

Tricks in Vegas • Magical duo Brendon Peel and Li Lau have “tricked” their way to Las Vegas on the world’s magician stage featuring the infamous Penn and Teller.

WHAT'S NEEDED IN YOUR LIFE? • Our Big Issue vendors enjoy art sessions hosted by Elaine Millin, our Art Facilitator. In their most recent...