VeggieHeadOnline: You're an up and coming actress and model in Australia, but folks in other parts of the world may not yet be familiar with your work. Please tell us a little about yourself and some of the projects you've been involved with.

Joanne Rose: I began my career as a model in Australia at the age of 16 and began traveling at 19 - living in the US on/off for several years. I got the acting bug while on vacation in California. I have done modeling and acting jobs in the US, so I basically got my start in the industry in both countries. I have done several independent films, magazines, a music video, promotions. All of which can be seen on my official website: www.joannerose.com

VeggieHeadOnline: How long have you been a vegan? Why did you become a vegan? Did you become a vegetarian first and make your way toward veganism, or did you just make the plunge directly?

Joanne: I became Vegan in my late teens, prior to that I was Vegetarian for a year. I decided to become Vegan because I do not believe in using any bi-animal products or exploiting animals in any way.

VHO: Is anyone else in your family vegan? How did they react to your decision? Do they try some of the things that you eat?

Joanne: My brother Scott and his girlfriend Sarah are Vegans. They both made the transition afterwards. When I first became Vegan there weren't many products available, or at least not as readily available in
supermarkets like it is today. My parents were a little worried to begin with, but taking the time to learn about this healthy and animal friendly lifestyle, they understood how easy it was to manage. My parents - both former meat eaters, are now vegetarian.

VHO: Is there an active vegan movement in Australia? Is it closely affiliated with the animal rights movement? How common is it for young people to be vegetarian or vegan?

Joanne: Yes there is - you can find out about them on the internet or in health magazines/books. The word vegan is so commonly used now, it's fantastic. Several years ago, people did not understand what it
meant. 

I do believe veganism is closely affiliated with the animal rights movement. I think it is alot more common now for young people to become vegetarian and vegan.

VHO: How does your philosophy about animal liberation relate to your veganism? Which came first for you ?

Joanne: Animal liberation and veganism go hand in hand for me. I made the decision to become vegan firstly because of my love of animals. Health reasons are second. 

VHO: What are some of your favorite vegan dishes? Have you any favorite recipes that you have put together? What kinds of meat substitutes do you enjoy?

Joanne: My favorite vegan dishes are Chinese, Mexican and "savory steamer" which is a fabulous dish at The Spot (restaurant) in California. I enjoy making a variety of vegan dishes which I often combine from vegan recipe books. I love wheat-free vegan pizza, steamed brown rice with mixed vegetables,
stuffed peppers. Meat substitutes I enjoy are vegetable burgers and tofu. There is fake bacon, chicken nuggets and wieners available for vegans also.

VHO: Do you find that your vegan diet is helpful in staying slender? Is this type of diet common among models and actors? What other benefits have you find in being vegan that is helpful in your career?

Joanne: While the vegan diet excludes animal fats, you still need to be aware of the way in which you cook meals to avoid any bad fats like deep fried foods. I eat boiled, raw, steamed and baked foods to keep slender. I am hearing that there are a lot more vegan actors and models. By leading the vegan lifestyle I find I am more energetic and healthy which is very necessary for my career.

VHO:   Have you found that your celebrity status is helpful in spreading the word about veganism and animal rights? Are you affiliated with any organizations or do any advocacy work?

Joanne: Yes, I certainly have. I have positively influenced many people in to becoming vegan. Some people have written to me to thank me for opening their eyes to the vegan lifestyle. I support Animal Liberation Victoria and Choose Cruelty Free in Melbourne. I also support many other organizations including PETA in the US.

VHO: Is there anything else you would like to add?

Joanne: Thank you to all Vegetarians and Vegans across the world!

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