On Thursday the 20th of September, Big Issue vendors hosted a special event to celebrate the achievements of homeless micro-entrepreneurs.
‘Real Lives, Real Journeys’ marks an important line in the sand for our vendors as The Big Issue turns 21. Themed around the Olympic legacy, the event showcased some truly inspiring achievements in the face of adversity. Guests were encouraged to engage with a ‘reverse monopoly’ installation, with real places where people who are homeless get by at night and real life ‘chance’ situations.
Big Issue Foundation CEO, Stephen Robertson, commented “The hope and optimism that is so much a part of the Olympic legacy is in stark contrast to the anger and depression post the riots of 2011. However, we face an unprecedented increase in the numbers of people who are hitting the streets. The statistics are frightening but the reality is terrifying. The Big Issue and the Foundation, offer a unique opportunity for people to help themselves by working their way back into the mainstream.”
The event was organised by Helen Wakeman-Jones from WKD Productions, sponsored by Banham and Women of the Year Foundation, and photographed by Magnus Arrevad.