Miss March may be young but she has accomplishes so much in her time here on earth. Native of Puerto Rico, she grew up in Hawaii and is now a SoCal resident which is perfect for her career. What career you ask, well Miss March is a professional surfer, and not just any professional surfer, at the age of 18 she won the gold medal in the ISA world games. Her surfing career has allowed her to see the world and spread her message of peace and love for animals all around. Please say hello to Tia @tiablanco
Name: Tia Blanco
Where do you live and where are you from? I was born in Puerto Rico, grew up in Hawaii and I’m now living in SoCal.
Age? 19
What do you do for a living/profession? I am a professional surfer. One of my greatest accomplishments was going vegan. It allowed me to save lives <3. I also just participated in the 2015 ISA World games for surfing and won a gold medal for our country. Go Team USA! #plantbasedathlete
What do you like to do for fun? I love to do yoga, paint and travel.
How long have you been vegan? I’ve been vegan for about 4 years..
Why did you become vegan? I did a lot of research and I read the China Study. I also watched Forks Over Knives and that was all it took. I didn’t realize that I was still contributing to animal torture by eating dairy. Now I’m not a part of that. I don’t feel superior to others because I’m vegan. I’m vegan because I don’t feel superior others.
How was your transition? My transition was VERY easy. I was born and raised vegetarian so the only thing I needed to let go of was dairy products.
What is the funniest misconception(s) that you have heard about vegans? It’s always been the protein myth!! It’s so annoying!! People also think vegans are weak. So not true
What is your Favorite thing(s) about being a vegan?
I do it to save the animals <3 Every vegan saves 198 animals a year!! I also do it because it makes me feel good mentally and physically.
What Do you think makes a Bad Ass Vegan? I think all vegans are pretty ‘Bad Ass’ because they’re saving lives everyday. To me that is bad ass and very sexy.
.What is the best vegan dish that you make in your kitchen? I make really good coconut mango rice. I don’t really have a recipe that I follow but here’s what I do. First, I saute Basmati rice, garlic, onions and a little ginger in a pan with coconut oil. Then I add half coconut water and half water and let it steam. When it’s almost done, I mix in a handful of 1/4 inch chunks of mango and let it steam for 5 minutes. Lastly, I add in salt, pepper and cilantro for extra taste.
What is the best Vegan Restaurant you have ever had the pleasure of eating at? I love all the Loving Huts! It’s cool because each Loving Hut has different vegan dishes. When I travel I use my Happy Cow app to find them
What advice do you have for those that are thinking of transitioning to a vegan lifestyle? DO IT!! It’ll be the best thing you’ve ever done. It’s good karma and good for the soul.
Do you have a website to share with the BAV nation?
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/Tia.Blanco
Instagram – @tiablanco
Twitter – @tia_blanco
Tumblr – @tiablanco
