Printing is on the decline the world over as a direct result of the accessibility of information on the Internet. Magazine printing is on a particular decline since magazines invariably address affluent audiences that have unrestricted access to the Internet.
Those who can afford it and know how to navigate their way around the Internet, have unfettered access to knowledge and information – giving them a distinct advantage when it comes to exploring opportunities, developing their own potential and finding solutions to problems.
But this vast and liberating storehouse of information is not readily available to most South Africans. While the majority of us have phones with access to the Internet, few have the money or savvy to use the Internet in a sustained and meaningful manner.
That’s why we print.
Knowledge has power. It controls access to opportunity and advancement. – Peter Drucker
Besides, information about services and solutions to problems experienced by poor people is fragmented and not easily accessible to marginalised audiences – even online. Most non-profit organisations cannot afford to promote their offering anywhere but online, where they invariably pitch to potential funders and donors and where those who need what’s on offer never venture. Consequently, many marginalised people are oblivious to the help, services, solutions and options available to them.
It is clear that the ever-widening gulf between mainstream and marginalised society is exacerbated by lack of access to information. South African Conversations attempts to bridge this knowledge divide by publishing information about resources on the web and elsewhere, thereby levelling the playing field to some extent.
Another reason why our magazine must be printed, is that it serves a purpose beyond the content it carries. While it is an important source of information, it is also an important source of income for unemployed people. Printed ‘street publications’ are a popular way to help unemployed and homeless people earn an income in many parts of the world.
And while the magazine is for sale to affluent audiences as a means of income generation for unskilled and self-employed people, it is also available to low-income audiences through corporate and institutional bulk subscriptions.
Collaborate with us to help create work … and a better world, with this uniquely South African product.
talk.to.us@southafricanconversations.co.za or call us on 0860 333 034
