Powell River’s first-ever VegFest is for all types of eaters, not just vegans and vegetarians, according to organizing committee member and registered holistic nutritionist Emma Larocque. The event, happening this Saturday, May 12, has something for everyone, she says.
“It’s an inclusive community celebration,” says Larocque.
VegFest features samples of plant-based food from more than 25 vendors, cooking demonstrations and opportunities for attendees to listen to inspiring guest speakers.
“We’re hoping people will just come and see what it’s all about,” says Larocque.
Guest speakers Dan and Sheanne Moskaluk will share the story of their journey back to health, which they credit to their whole foods, plant-based lifestyle. In 2013 Dan was diagnosed with stage-four kidney cancer.
“We attribute that the adoption of this lifestyle has given him the ability to survive and thrive,” says Sheanne. “Dan is at this point cancer free.”
For Sheanne, the eating plan resulted in significant weight loss.
“I was 300 pounds when I started this and was able to lose 133 pounds over two years,” she says.
This had not been the intention, she adds, but it was a welcome side effect.
Their experiences have inspired them to share their story with anyone who will listen.
“We are so passionate to help people to avoid all of the suffering that is attributed to our standard American diet,” says Sheanne.
According to Dan, Powell River already appears to have many who ascribe to healthy eating.
“It looks like Powell River has a vibrant whole food, plant-based vegan community,” he says.
Vancouver-based animal rights lawyer, strategist and activist Anna Pippus will also attend as a guest speaker. She will talk about problems and solutions related to animal farming in Canada.
Pippus says most farmed animals are treated in ways that are out of step with Canadians’ shared values of compassion and justice. There are many ways people get involved in creating a kinder world for all, she adds.
Pippus specializes in issues relating to farmed animals and the animal rights movement.
Powell River VegFest
When: Saturday, May 12, 10 am - 4 pm
Where: Brooks Secondary School
Price: Free
Information: facebook.com/PRvestfest2018
