A perfect mixture of personality, fitness and compassion for animals sees Glasgow based fitness blogger Stefanie Moir, 24, and Newcastle firefighter Anthony Welsh, 26, crowned PETA's UK and Ireland's Hottest Vegans of 2016.
Stefanie Moir and Anthony Welsh are the hottest vegans of 2016
Moir says she is "bubbly and outgoing". She went vegan three years ago have a healthier and cruelty-free life. "I went vegan to be able to live the healthiest and fittest life whilst also reducing cruelty to animals", she says. "I have watched numerous documentaries … and read lots of articles … and I wanted to do my part to reduce the suffering of animals and the damage to the planet."
Moir has her own vegan blog NaturallyStefanie.com and also has a popular YouTube channel. She coaches people who want to make the compassionate choice to go plant-based.
Welsh is a firefighter, technician and model. He switched to veganism five years ago after he did some research online. This educated him on the cruelty involved in eating and wearing animals. "I had a sudden awakening to how bizarre it was that humans … showed affection to household pets but consumed other animals", he says. "I realised I could not put my money into such a business that exploits, tortures and kills innocent, beautiful beings." Welsh plays the drums and enjoys travelling. As well as promoting vegan living on social media, he also wears clothes with a vegan message emblazoned across the front to the gym. He aims to show people just how fit and healthy you can be on a plant-based diet.
"The two winners are as attractive on the inside as they are on the outside because they've chosen a lifestyle that's kind to animals, the planet and their own health.", says PETA Director Mimi Bekhechi.
The pair both get a one night stay with a guest at the luxury boutique hotel La Suite West in London. This includes a vegan breakfast as well as a dinner prepared by vegan Head Chef Nik Heartland at its restaurant, RAW.
For more information and to order a free vegan starter kit or take PETA's 30-day vegan pledge, please visit PETA.org.uk.
Exclusive interview with Anthony Welsh
Exclusive interview with Stefanie Moir