What makes a really good day selling The Big Issue?
Sunny day. Friendly people. Getting free donuts. One day a policeman gave me a muffin. Enjoy.
What makes a tough day selling The Big Issue?
Homeless people. Sadness.
How does using your iPad shape the way you connect with people?
Very important, because I’m trying to talk to people, including my customers. [The iPad text-to-speech] makes it easy: I can email people, text and send photos. I can also do video calling which I could not do normally.
How do people usually respond when you communicate using your iPad?
Patient.
What are you most proud of in your life so far?
Talking.
What do you think people misunderstand about you?
Why I can’t talk.
What makes a place memorable when you travel?
Location.
Where have you been lately?
Alaska.
Is there somewhere new you’d love to go next?
Italy and Greece.
What do you enjoy most about watching sport?
Cheering. I am a Raiders supporter and have a season pass for Raiders – a special seat!
What do you enjoy most about your church community?
Friendly people. Morning tea.
What are you working towards at the moment?
Working in a law firm. Speech therapy.
If someone stops at your pitch for the first time, what do you hope they take away?
[That I’m] funny: I make people laugh.
Is there anything you’d like to say to your customers?
Thank you and enjoy your day.
Bryan M sells The Big Issue at Jamison Shops, Canberra
Interview by Rachael McMahon and Tim Hall
Photo by Long Nguyen
Published in ed#768