The Big Issue is a vibrant and energetic organisation, which was started in 1997 to support homeless, marginalised and unemployed people in Cape Town to earn a living.
Now, 22 years on, they are making massive strides in social and economic inclusion, as well as poverty reduction, having provided employment and social support for thousands of people, who have earned well over R23-million to date.
The evening, which included a three-course meal and an on-site auction of luxury consumables, including holidays, vintage wine, fine dining, hand-made crafts and much more, was hosted by Cape Town’s own son of the soil, comedian par excellence, Stuart Taylor, with entertainment provided by Hot Water Band, Jeremy Olivier and Rainbow Academy.
Comedian Stuart Taylor Picture: Supplied
Taylor called on the audience, to use the two auction sessions, as their 67minutes and dig deep into their pockets to support the amazing work done by The Big Issue.
“We are delighted to be able to support worthy causes, particularly during Mandela Month, where we are all called upon to give back to society and reach out to those in need,” said Zain Amod, ClareMart General Manager.
“The crowd was a bit reserved at first, or maybe they were hedging their bets, but with some strong encouragement from ClareMart’s highly-acclaimed auctioneer, Glen Haris, the generosity was soon very evident and we are deeply grateful to all the bidders who gave so freely and showed such incredible support for our vendors who especially in Winter, brace the elements to sell their magazines every day,” said Derek Carelse MD of The Big Issue.
ClareMart’s highly-acclaimed auctioneer, Glen Haris. Picture: Supplied
Mikateko Media proudly invests in The Big Issue because it supports entrepreneurship, job creation and job preservation. Desireé Johnson, MD of Mikateko Media believes that business in South Africa is key to addressing imbalance, inequality and economic growth.
Businesses that explore new ways of incorporating mentorship, skills transfer and meaningful internships to adequately prepare youth to filter into mainstream businesses and jobs are a key inspiration.
“I believe that whilst we drive profit, we are yet mindful of inequalities and by practicing social innovation, we can address any inequalities or imbalance,” says Desireé.
“We are grateful that companies like ClareMart not only share our sentiments, but have actively supported this event in more ways than one, and for this we sincerely thank them,” she adds.
Capetonians have shown once again that Madiba’s legacy is alive and well and when it really matters, our sense of Ubuntu is stronger than ever.