Thea, a 16-year-old girl, has been vegan for three years now and has been enjoying it so far. Despite the fact that it’s only been three years, this lifestyle is not all new to her. She had been vegetarian for the majority of her life and grew up in an encouraging environment with her mother being vegetarian as well. Although Thea’s other family members such as her father and her siblings have different eating habits, her father always makes sure she has something to eat and is sure to find alternatives for their non-vegan food.

With regards to eating out, Thea emphasized that “it is all about how much you want it, and it takes a little preparation. However, it is nothing I can not do, and considering all of the health benefits, a few extra minutes to prepare some food is not a problem for me.” Some of the short term benefits and effects that have been noticeable to her are more clear skin and feeling awake and energized. In addition, she also believes that she will have long-term benefits like fewer diseases and being more able to be active when older. 

Thea believes that “veganism does not have an age, but younger children or toddlers need to have an adult that is going to help and make sure they have healthy and balanced meals in order to get all the nutrition that they need growing up.” Thea’s biggest motivation for going vegan is helping animals. With global warming and animal extinction, she believes that one of the most effective things that she can do is have a plant-based diet. She feels that going a little out of her way in terms of her diet can change the situation drastically, and every change is a step in the right direction.

Thea’s story shows that when you want something and believe in that something, then it will feel natural for you. Although veganism may be easier for some people than others, as Thea said, “a small change is still a change,” nonetheless.