MEET SELENE NELSON
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When did you decide to go Vegan and why?
I’ve always seen myself as an animal lover. By 2017 – when I went vegan – I’d already stopped eating meat, but when I discovered how the dairy and egg industries operate, I couldn’t bring myself to eat any animal products again. I knew I could never harm an animal myself, so it felt wrong paying someone to do it on my behalf.
In 10 words or less – what would you say to someone who is considering this kind of lifestyle and diet?
Do your research. Own your decision. Be kind to yourself.
What are your favourite vegan brands for clothes and makeup?
I love LUSH products for my hair, and get my makeup from Charlotte Tilbury, The Body Shop, or B at Superdrug. I always pick up a top when I go to vegan fairs, as they’re usually made by small vegan startups which I like to support. I also love the shoes by V.gan.
What, in your opinion, are the downsides of going vegan for good?
The only real downside I’ve experienced is having to continually explain to people why I don’t want to eat or exploit animals, and why going vegan isn’t actually an “extreme” thing to do. The amazing vegan food available these days means you don’t have to worry about missing out on delicious meals!
Could you recommend us your 3 favourite vegan books
Yes Ve-gan! by Selene Nelson (sorry!)
Eating Animals by Jonathan Safron Foer
Why We Love Dogs, Eat Pigs, and Wear Cows by Melanie Joy
What advice would you give to people who have tried Veganuary and want to carry on living a vegan life?
Going vegan for good is much easier than you think, but only if you have motivation. Research why you want to go vegan – whether you’re driven by animals or the environment or health – and then keep reminding yourself of these reasons. When I went vegan I thought I would miss cheese, but once I’d confronted the horrors of the dairy industry, I didn’t view it in the same way and no longer wanted it. Your brain will adapt to a vegan life… you just have to give it a bit of time.
What’s your favourite vegan dessert?
You can veganise any dessert, so my favourites are the same as before I was vegan: red berry cheesecake, and jam roly poly pudding with custard!
What’s your favourite Brunch spot?
In Bristol, where I live, East Village Cafe does great vegan brunches – I love the spiced seitan sausage sandwich, and the shakshuka – with tofu instead of eggs. In London, you can’t beat the Mexican street-food inspired brunches at The Spread Eagle in Homerton.
In 3 words, describe how you feel when you see young activists working together for a better world
Hopeful, appreciative, inspired.
Could you suggest 3 small changes people can make to live a little bit more sustainably?
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If you don’t feel ready to go full vegan, cutting out red meat and dairy is the next best thing – it makes a huge difference.
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Become a conscious shopper. Visit refill shops to save packaging and always keep a big cloth bag on you.
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Watch environmental films like Cowspiracy to learn more about sustainability. Knowledge is power, and once you know more you’ll probably feel inspired to make your own small changes.
