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My Time As a Vegan Journalist Intern
By Chelsea Chilewa, VRG Intern
Creating a Vegan World
I served as an intern for the Eleanor Miltimore Wolff Internship with The Vegetarian Resource Group during my junior year at Howard University. I spent my time working for VRG learning on and off the field about the many aspects of plant-based living.
I became vegan in summer 2022, and initially, the journey was rough. That summer, all I ate was a variation of rice, spinach, and beans, plus the occasional spaghetti night. I didn't know any vegans other than my brother, and when we cooked together, it was a disaster. Finding VRG was a stroke of luck that was clearly the universe throwing me into a new era.
Through VRG, I was able to meet other people on their plant-based journey, delving into deep conversations with them about the social dilemmas and overall wellness of humans. At Baltimore Vegan SoulFest, I met many elders that had 20+ years of living consciously. It was truly inspiring.
I also got the chance to film a vegan nutritional video for undergraduates, filled with informative content and personal anecdotes from VRG volunteers, which became an instruction aid for classes of nutrition students to talk about how they would respond to you as a not-yet vegan. Based on what I said, the students developed a plan to guide someone like me in becoming vegan.
I attended Natural Products Expo East, which was enlightening and heartwarming. The vendors eagerly shared their favorite vegan products, from delicious plant-based desserts to creative mushroom-based recipes. Their enthusiasm was infectious. One memorable young woman with a radiant smile spoke animatedly about her vegan pancake and cornbread mix, and how it was indistinguishable from the dairy version.
My time as a vegan journalist intern was an enriching experience that deepened my understanding of the environmental challenges we face and the solutions available. It was a reminder that we all have a role to play in preserving our planet. By sharing stories and information, I became a voice for change, and I realized that even small actions, like creating a vegan nutritional video, can contribute to a brighter, greener future.
As I reflect on my journey, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to blend my passion for writing with my commitment to a sustainable and vegan lifestyle. My time as a vegan journalist intern has not only shaped my career, but has also strengthened my dedication to making a positive impact on the world, one word and one video at a time.
For information about VRG internships, see www.vrg.org/student/index.php
To support VRG internships, donate at www.vrg.org/donate
