Following is a brief overview of our most important policies, which ultimately determine the direction of the publication.

Focus.

ZA Difference highlights the plight of South Africa's marginalized — whether caused by poverty, age, disability, race or geographic location — and the impact of this on our collective lives. ZA Difference brings to consciousness the options for action open to us — as individuals, communities and businesses — to create the kind of world we want to live in.

Non-competition and collaboration.

ZA Difference collaborates and works in partnership with individuals and organisations involved in making a positive, sustainable impact on the issue of poverty and its related ills.

Community participation.

ZA Difference actively invites ideas, stories, articles, poems, letters, photographs and artwork from its readers and from authors, educators, journalists, activists, social commentators and organisations involved in social transformation work. All published contributions are paid for, thus creating income for contributors.

Self-reliance, sustainability and entrepreneurship.

ZA Difference discourages aid that creates dependence. ZA Difference promotes and practices sustainable self-reliance, self-determination and entrepreneurship.

Diversity, dignity and equality.

ZA Difference endeavours to reflect the diversity of South African society, integrating the principles of equality, non-discrimination and voluntary participation.

Advertising.

ZA Difference does not accept advertising that promotes the special interests of religious groups or political parties. However, any organisation involved in social transformation, social justice and development work — regardless of their religious or political affiliation — is welcome to advertise its offerings on the pages of ZA Difference.

Non-governmental, non-profit organisations are invited to list their offerings free of charge in the ZA Difference Resource Directory.

Constructive, positive contribution.

ZA Difference will maintain a positive, constructive, compassionate and respectful outlook on South Africa, yet will not shy away from publishing conflicting views, presenting opposite sides of an issue.

Professionalism, excellence and integrity.

ZA Difference is committed to the highest standards of intellectual endeavour, creativity and professionalism, and aspires to good judgement, integrity and excellence in everything we do. Editorial independence is paramount and will not be swayed by advertisers.