My name is Gabriela (@gabzilla89). Born in Los Angeles, and raised in the San Fernando Valley. I am currently working at an Urgent Care in Beverly Hills.
What was the moment you realize that you wanted to go vegan?
I started cutting off animal products about 10 years ago. It wasn’t until a few years ago I was making food for my coworkers when I suddenly got disgusted with meat. I couldn’t even look at it. From the time I started cutting animal products, I would volunteer at shelters, sign petitions against animal cruelty, and had a few pets myself. I realized I couldn’t be signing petitions and helping abused and homeless dogs while still eating other animals. From that point on it suddenly clicked. Getting disgusted and helping animals for such a long time was a big wake-up call. From the day I got disgusted, I gave up everything which was mostly makeup and shoes.
I created a second Instagram page called Outdoor Vegans in which I sometimes feature other outdoor vegans and/or outdoor cooking. Just started the page but I’ve gotten nothing but good vibes and lots of nonvegan followers. I want to show them how having this lifestyle helps the earth and nature since we all love exploring the outdoors. As always, there are some who ask about vitamins and proteins. I love to cook, so I write down all the nutritional information I am eating.
What’s your favorite Vegan restaurant?
As for restaurants, one of my favorites is Bulan Thai in Melrose. I’ve taken lots of my nonvegan friends and they all love it and want to go back.
Please share your favorite vegan recipe?
My favorite thing to cook would be mac and cheese. It contains follow your heart provolone cheese, cheddar cheese, ranch, butter, drop of almond milk, nutritional yeast, and other spices. So good.
Some encouraging words for new Vegans?
I always tell my nonvegan friends they need to love the earth and one another, once that is accomplished everything will fall into place and their heart will feel better and forever be thankful.
What does living cruelty-free mean to you?
Cruelty-free means loving everything, from plants, humans to animals. Knowing my lifestyle doesn’t hurt anybody is a great feeling and makes me want to show others the positive side. Letting go of the food, makeup, and everyday household items was extremely easy.
What is the toughest Vegan item to find that you need?
Some of the challenging vegan things to find would have to be the right vegan outdoor gear for my adventures. I hike and climb big mountains. Goes from 60 degrees to zero or worse real fast with strong cold winds. Since I refuse to wear down jackets and leather gear, I have to research and be very prepared when I’m outside. So far so good.
Lastly, I would like to ask other vegans to join me on a vegan hike and share experiences. I am already planning a hike. As soon as I know the full details I will make the announcement.
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