Name:Paola Deocampo

Where do you live and where are you from?
I recently moved to Dallas, TX.  My hometown is Los Angeles, CA.

Age?
32

What do you do for a living/profession?
I am a Voice Actor and Personal Trainer.

What do you like to do for fun?
Travel, reading, hiking, dancing, and karaoke

How long have you been vegan?
I made the transition in April 2010

Why did you become vegan?
I made a direct connection to the source of my food.  After reading books like Skinny Bitch and Why we Love Dogs, Eat Pigs, and Wear Cows, and after watching documentaries like Food, Inc, Earthlings, and Forks Over Knives,  I can no longer perceive animals as edible.

How was your transition?
My transition did not go well at first, because I hadn’t realized that, no matter what kind of diet you’re on, there must be balance.  I was eating too many sweets.  When I learned more about how to balance my meals, my energy shot up and I began dropping fat.

What is the funniest misconception(s) that you have heard about vegans?
Funniest misconception:  We’re weak, malnourished, and need vitamins more than meat eaters.  The majority of our micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) come from a plant-based diet.  And there are plenty of ripped and sexy vegans that defy the idea that we are weak.

What is your Favorite thing(s) about being a vegan?
I feel more connected with both people and animals.  I have a more open heart toward all earthlings now.  Also, it’s done wonders for my skin and weight!

What do you think makes a Sexy Bad Ass Vegan?
Inner and outer strength.  Compassion.  Confidence.  Kindness.

What is the best vegan dish that you make in your kitchen?
My favorite dish is vegan pizza.  I buy a crust (whole wheat or corn meal), put tomato sauce on it, sprinkle generous amounts of Daiya cheddar-style cheese, and whatever fresh toppings I have at the moment (usually mushrooms, tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, and spinach).  Yum!

What is the best Vegan Restaurant you have ever had the pleasure of eating at?
The Veggie Grill.  I LOVE The Veggie Grill!!

What advice do you have for those that are thinking of transitioning to a vegan lifestyle?
Maintain a good balance of nuts, grains, fruits, vegetables, and find what you like.  Eating vegan does not mean that you’re stuck with boring food.  There are many tasty options.  Even when I’m preparing for a competition, I never eat anything that’s tasteless just because it’s healthy.  Being vegan is highly enjoyable, because it’s cruelty-free, which makes everything taste so much more deliciousJ.  Also, become aware of the ingredients in your beauty products and the fabric you’re wearing.

Do you have a website to share with the BAV nation?
My blog:  www.paolasvoice.tumblr.com

I share recipes, do some fitness journaling, and post pics of my Pug, Roxy.  Enjoy!