It’s World Vegan Month! Going plant-based piquing your interest? Reality TV star and lifestyle entrepreneur Mercy Mogase shares what she has experienced on her vegan journey.
1. It can be budget-friendly
Many people think veganism means buying expensive speciality items, but this isn’t true. Changing to a plant-based lifestyle can actually be budget-friendly, especially if you build your meals around simple staples like grains, beans, lentils, seasonal veggies and fruits. Cooking from scratch and planning meals around these core ingredients has kept my diet balanced, nourishing and wallet-friendly. It’s all about focusing on wholefoods, which are usually less expensive and can be more versatile. Veganism doesn’t have to be about pricey products; it can be as accessible as any other lifestyle.
2. You should get creative in the kitchen
A plant-based diet offers endless possibilities. Being plant-based doesn’t mean giving up flavour. It’s an opportunity to explore new foods, tastes and cultural dishes. Many cuisines around the world have various plant-based options, from hearty African stews to flavourful Indian curries. I’ve loved experimenting with these, incorporating my own culture’s flavours into my meals. Veganism can feel like a global culinary adventure that always has something new to try.
3. Plant-based meals can still fuel an active lifestyle
Another common myth is that vegans struggle to get enough protein, especially those with active lifestyles. As someone who’s both vegan and dedicated to fitness, I can confidently say there’s no shortage of fuel from plants. Leafy greens (and certain other vegetables), wholegrains, nuts and seeds are packed with protein. If I don’t take a nutritional shake, my go-to protein-packed meal is a mix of quinoa and chickpeas, which provides a complete protein source. A vegan diet can keep you energised and help your body recover from any active lifestyle, and there are many Olympic athletes who can attest to that.
4. There’s no wrong way to do it
There’s often pressure to “do veganism right”, but every small step counts. Enjoying a plant-based lifestyle doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing, and it’s perfectly okay to start by making a few swaps or eating vegan a few days a week. Some people worry about social situations, but veganism is flexible and adaptable. Small choices add up over time, and even small changes contribute to a kinder, more sustainable world.
Follow Mercy on social media
Instagram: @mercycooksvegan
Instagram: @mercymogase
YouTube: Mercy Mogase
Words: Mercy Mogase
Images: Supplies
