An Interview with Aashti Sindhu - 'That Vegan Pilot'
As veganism is continuing to catch on, many people still think that individual efforts do not make a difference. But our vegan friend, Aashti Sindhu thinks otherwise. Apart from being a hard-working pilot, she is also a fantastic cook and a fitness enthusiast. With her continuous and dedicated efforts to make the life of travelling vegans easier, her Instagram is sure to win your hearts! Let’s meet Aashti and know more about her flying vegan journey.
How did you first get into veganism?
My journey to being vegan started about 2 years ago without any prior knowledge about veganism. I met a friend who was vegan and she planted the seed needed for me to do my own research and eventually made the decision to try it out for a few weeks. At that time I had no idea about the health benefits or the immense environmental impact of animal agriculture. It was just something I felt I needed to do as an animal lover. Fast forward to now - I can definitely say it was one of the best decisions and a life-changing one at that!
Describe yourself in three words.
Compassionate, Dedicated and Sensitive.
What does vegan fashion mean to you?
For a long time, I stopped buying stuff cause it was hard to find cruelty free items that were stylish. Vegan fashion to me is about being fashionable with a conscience. In this profit-driven world, it’s hard to find a company that cares for the planet and the animals as well as trying to provide styles that are classic but also versatile.
What inspired you to pursue a career as a pilot?
I wanted to be a pilot since I was 5 years old. I was greatly inspired by my grandfather who was also in aviation, and since then it has always been my dream to fly a plane.
What is the best and the worst thing about being a pilot?
The best thing about being a pilot is travelling to different places and getting to try all the delicious vegan foods available in different countries. I’m not too fond of the odd timings but have learned to live with that.
What’s your best advice for travelling vegan? Has it become more or less challenging over time?
My advice for a travelling vegan would be to worry less. Initially, I would get really stressed about finding vegan options but now I’ve realised it’s really not that hard. Beans, rice, veggies are easy to find anywhere you travel. I feel really good choosing a cruelty-free meal in a country where being vegan is rare.
What is your favourite vegan snack to binge on?
My favourite healthy snack is fruit. I can eat fruit all day. Otherwise, spicy banana chips are my weakness and I can finish a whole bag or bags in one sitting. :)
How do you choose your handbags?
I haven’t bought too many handbags since I turned vegan. However, the styles I gravitate to the most are classic and functional. I prefer buying a few good quality bags that I know will last for a while as opposed to seasonal trends.
Have you met anyone famous/interesting since you started flying and travelling?
Unfortunately, I don’t get to interact with the passengers too much but I would love to fly some really cool Vegan personalities. I have connected with a lot of fellow vegans through Instagram and would love have them on my flight someday!
Who inspires you within the vegan and animal rights movements?
I am inspired by anyone that chooses this vegan lifestyle for the animals and is vocal about it. I believe that we as individuals have the power to stop animal suffering in our lifetime. Awareness and education are key and the more we challenge society and its norms, the faster we can expect change. I honestly applaud anyone making an effort towards this cause. People are also realising the immense benefits of eating a Whole Food Plant Based diet and that gives me great hope. A diet that is good for the animals, our health and the planet -It really doesn’t get any better than this!
What do you love about Broke Mate?
I love that Broke Mate is brand with a conscience. It’s refreshing to see a company that stands by its beliefs and is spreading awareness to end animal suffering. Kudos to you guys and hope to see this becoming the norm in the fashion world.
We believe that a woman as purposeful as Aashti is bound to change the way we eat when we travel.
Fly with Aashti :