Steven Persson

For over 15 years I’ve had the privilege of leading The Big Issue Australia and during this time I have had the opportunity to get to know hundreds of our hard-working vendors. 

Despite facing some enormous challenges, the resilience our vendors continue to show is truly humbling. They turn up to work on streets across Australia selling our fortnightly Big Issue magazine, day in, day out, and unlike most of us, do so without knowing how much they’ll be rewarded for their effort.

Whilst it has been wonderful to see vendors back selling regularly after a very tough couple of years, unfortunately, the city streets they are returning to are starkly different places, with foot traffic still well down, directly impacting their ability to earn. And operating a social enterprise model, if our vendors are not earning then neither are we – which affects our ability to keep producing our great magazine and supporting our vendor workforce.

To ensure we can continue supporting those who need it most, your donation to The Big Sell is greatly appreciated and will make a big impact in helping us continue to help our vendors help themselves.

With my great thanks
Steven