On the street with The Big Issue comment count

• News
• August 13, 2010 ∥
• By Ingrid Sinclair

Fatima Borez with one of The Big Issue vendors

Cape Town Tourism’s continued support of The Big Issue magazine got a boost today when Cape Town Tourism (CTT) staff members put themselves in the vendors’ shoes, hit the streets and spent the morning selling The Big Issue to Cape Town motorists.

Local radio station Heart 104FM did a live broadcast from the Somerset Road/Buitengracht intersection and there was a colourful array of helpers egging the CTT team on – including a Burmese python and belly dancers!

“It was good fun and we learnt a lot about prejudice,” said CTT Marketing Services Manager Wendy Van der Byl.

CTT Events Coordinator Fatima Borez was the star sales rep and the her sales pitch of “I have no change” doubled the profits.

“We are looking forward to working with The Big Issue again during the My Cape Town Weekend in September,” said Wendy.

Here are some more responses from the CTT team:

“I’ve always been on the other side of the car window at a busy intersection surrounded by vendors of one kind or another with irritation and annoyance in my demeanour. Being on the street trying to convince a member of the public that I am not poor and desperate, and that I will not rob you – I merely want to convince you that your contribution of R14 will make a difference to someone less fortunate – was one of the biggest challenges I have faced in a while. The lack of eye contact and quick roll-up of a window shouts ‘Go away!’ louder than words ever could. I now have a greater respect and empathy for vendors trying to make an honest living and I value the contribution The Big Issue makes to our society at large. It’s an experience I’d recommend to anyone who needs a touch of reality to put life back into perspective.” Wendy Van der Byl – Marketing Services Manager, CTT

“I have new-found respect for The Big Issue vendors and will make a point to greet them, search for any change and make them feel special in future. This morning was heartbreaking, to say the very least. It was sad that the owners of sporty cars, who quite frankly could afford R14, were the ones who were annoyed, on their phones, rolled up their windows and dodged us.” Fatima Borez – Events Coordinator, CTT

“Stepping into the shoes of The Big Issue vendors was an eye-opening experience. Apart from a few motorists who very kindly refused, most were like robots programmed for their destination and not willing to divert or make a stop for a worthy contribution along the way. I have great respect for the vendors who are trying to make an honest living. I wish more motorists would open their hearts and help make a contribution. R14 will not dig a deep hole in your pocket.” Thirumerni Naidoo – Events & Business Tourism Coordinator, CTT