The Big Issue celebrates 100 issues - and more to come

The independent magazine was launched in South Africa in December 1996 as part of a job creation project modelled on the United Kingdom's original concept of using a professional publication as a means to provide the socially marginalised with 'a hand up, not a hand out'. It is sold by vendors who pocket half the cover price, and to date, has put over R8-million into the pockets of the socially excluded and the poor.

"It's an extraordinary achievement considering that publishing isn't easy even when it's run on commercial lines," says managing director, Richard Ishmail. "The Big Issue is a major achievement in the arena of independent, socially aware and ethical publishing."

The milestone magazine is on sale from October 25. The Big Issue Scotland's founder and president of the International Network of Street Papers, Mel Young, together with The Body Shop's managing director, Carol Poulton, will help vendors drive sales by hitting the streets with them.

Editor James Garner, who has been with the magazine since its inception, says it was a massive challenge putting together such a large magazine, with such a small staff. "We took this opportunity to introduce new design elements into the magazine, and several new features as a result of a recent reader survey that we undertook. So having the space to play with was a wonderful opportunity for us to show off what we can do," Garner said.

Throughout its history, the magazine has shown integrity and reported fearlessly, according to Garner. "We have displayed a commitment to serve the people of South Africa by tenaciously striving to maintain the publication despite often insurmountable obstacles. We've resisted any censorship and our reporters have shown courage in highlighting issues that aren't always palatable to the public," he says.

Raymond Joseph, founder editor and member of the board of directors, said The Big Issue had survived - and grown - in an extremely competitive environment. "The magazine has always been content-driven. It stands on its own and has never been a hard luck case. What's important too is that The Big Issue has an edge over other magazines in that it doesn't have to compete with other magazines for shelf space. Its unique distribution channel is one of its major strengths," Joseph said.

Commercial publishing giant, Touchline Media, that has had a long relationship with The Big Issue, congratulated the magazine on its achievement. The company challenged other media to join them in placing advertising in the bumper issue. Marc Blachowitz, managing director and chief executive office of Touchline, says, "We believe the independent voice of The Big Issue should never be stifled and wish it every success. We sincerely hope it will publish another 100 editions after this."

The Big Issue celebrated the 100th issue with a function at Manenbergs for staff, donors, readers and loyal advertisers. Natalie Becker was the MC and special video of 100 covers treated guests to a visual history of the magazine.