Veganism has gained remarkable traction in recent years, thanks largely to passionate activists who use their platforms to advocate for animal rights, health, and environmental sustainability. Here are some of the most influential vegan activists making a difference worldwide.
1. Joaquin Phoenix
An Academy Award-winning actor, Joaquin Phoenix has long been vocal about animal rights and environmental conservation. From his impactful speeches to his involvement with PETA and the documentary Earthlings, Phoenix uses his fame to promote veganism as a compassionate choice.
2. Greta Thunberg
Known primarily for her climate activism, Greta Thunberg is also a committed vegan. She regularly emphasizes the connection between animal agriculture and environmental destruction, encouraging her audience to adopt plant-based diets for the planet’s sake.
3. James Aspey
Australian activist James Aspey rose to prominence after taking a year-long vow of silence to raise awareness about animal cruelty. Since then, he’s become a leading figure in vegan advocacy, using public speaking and social media to encourage ethical eating.
4. Moby
Musician and activist Moby has been advocating for animal rights since the 1980s. His restaurant, Little Pine, donates 100% of its profits to animal rights organizations, and he frequently speaks out about veganism through music, writing, and interviews.
5. Genesis Butler
At just 10 years old, Genesis Butler made headlines as one of the youngest people to give a TEDx talk, focusing on the impact of animal agriculture on the environment. Now a teenager, she continues to speak passionately about veganism and its benefits for animals and the planet.
6. Ed Winters (Earthling Ed)
Ed Winters, known as Earthling Ed, is a powerful voice for veganism. His calm, logical approach to debates on animal rights has earned him a massive following. Winters runs a non-profit and regularly hosts workshops to educate people on ethical eating.
7. Billie Eilish
Grammy-winning singer Billie Eilish uses her platform to speak out against animal cruelty and promote plant-based lifestyles. Eilish frequently shares vegan insights with her massive fanbase, inspiring many young people to reconsider their food choices.
8. Miyoko Schinner
Founder of Miyoko’s Creamery, Miyoko Schinner is a leader in the vegan food industry, dedicated to creating sustainable dairy alternatives. Through her products and advocacy, Schinner promotes compassionate food choices and environmental sustainability.
9. Joey Carbstrong
Formerly involved in animal agriculture, Joey Carbstrong now works as an animal rights activist, travelling globally to engage in street debates and public talks. His direct approach is aimed at challenging misconceptions about veganism.
10. Tabitha Brown
Social media influencer and actress Tabitha Brown uses her warm, relatable style to make veganism accessible to a wide audience. Known for her humour and positivity, she shares vegan recipes and insights that encourage her followers to embrace plant-based eating.
These activists are helping to bring veganism into the mainstream, each using their unique platforms to make a difference. For more on the impact of vegan activism, explore our guide to influential vegan voices and learn about veganism’s global impact.