Meet Vendor Artist Batsi Jorofani, working with fellow artists on the theme of thinking of people who inspire, with the work showcased in The Big Issue #340 now available.
Elaine Millin – The Big Issue Art Facilitator explains that he theme for the session was thinking of people who inspire; famous or someone they know, for their special qualities kindness, compassion, love, generosity – those qualities that are needed in the world. The vendors were invited to find images that express the qualities in the person that they appreciate.
Quote: “Find a group of people who challenge and inspire you, spend a lot of time with them, and it will change your life forever.” – Amy Poehler
Meet Vendor Artist: Batsi Jorofani
Batsi Jorofani
Batsi joined The Big Issue in 2009 after moving to South Africa in 2006.He was born in Mozambique, where he spent most of my childhood, and later moved to Zimbabwe. Unlike many foreign brothers and sisters, he didn’t settle in Johannesburg, but came straight to Cape Town as he felt it was a safer option and this is most important for him as he is the breadwinner for his family back home.
“I would love to pursue art as a career. I love it with all my heart; it defines me. Art makes me feel like I’m free and I’m able to express my thoughts and feelings through it. I’d like to get into the industry and exhibit my paintings. On the other hand, I’d also love to get into social development programmes for kids. I can help out with art or sport. I believe that with a little guidance, children – and the entire African continent – can have a bright future. In my spare time, I enjoy relaxing at home or meeting up with friends.
My journey at The Big Issue has been a wonderful experience; I’m truly grateful. Being a Big Issue entrepreneur shaped my life, as I was heading nowhere.”
His painting is titled: Peaceful Landscape
Other Vendor Artists whose work can be see in The Big Issue #340
- Khanyisa Gogotya – Combination of Nature
- Michael van der Walt – Children playing at a waterfall
- Noloyiso Tubeni – My green butterfly
- Solomon Masoso – Compassionate
- Xoliswa Ntunta – Snake in the garden
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- Khanyiso
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- Michael van der Walt,
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- Nobyiso Tubeni
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- Solomon- Masoso
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- Xoliswa Ntunta
The cost is R350.00 – R300 goes to the Artist R50 to the art programme..
To acquire a work E elainemillin.art@gmail.com. The work can also be see at the Noordhoek Art Point gallery. “Pop in, have a look, and help support our local stars”.
WHEN & WHERE: June 2025
Available from your favourite vendor across the city. Anyone outside the city of Cape Town can buy the magazine nationally at selected Spar and Pick n Pay stores. Anyone outside of Cape Town can also buy the magazine here.
Don’t forget: you can buy The Big Issue with your smartphone! Visit for a step-by-step guide. INFO: E bigissue@mikatekomedia.co.za | Visit | Editorial: Editor Ingrid Jones, 021-461-6690 | Advertising/Marketing: Derek Carelse at derekcarelse@mweb.co.za | See also Cape Town Green Map
The WHAT, WHY & WHERE of the
arts scene in around Cape Town
see the 2025 art craft + museums map
and listen in to the
Arts Round Up Fridays @17:30
on Fine Music Radio FMR 101.3fm
