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VEGNEWS.COM^ VegNews 43
THE POP STAR
Miley Cyrus
³With megawatt star Billy Ray Cyrus
as a father, Miley Cyrus was perhaps
always destined for stardom. And
indeed, today Cyrus’ resumé boasts
achievements that include award-
winning actress, Grammy Award
nominee, and non-profit foundation
pioneer. But it’s how she uses
her voice as an unabashed and
outspoken advocate for animals that
sets her apart from most Hollywood
stars. With more than 96 million
Instagram followers, Cyrus’ influence
is undeniable; when she wed Liam
Hemsworth in 2018, photos of the
newlyweds noshing vegan comfort
food classics like truffle mac and
cheese, stick-to-your ribs chicken
and dumplings, and banana pudding
showed those legions of fans that
another kind of celebration—one thatmarries ethics and authenticity—is
possible. Whether she’s auctioning off
iconic Hannah Montana memorabilia
to benefit animals and habitat
preservation or speaking up for the
animals while decked out in Stella
McCartney at the Met Gala, Miley
is living, breathing proof that talent
coupled with a big heart is the ticket
to superstardom.THE BUSINESS MAVEN
Pinky Cole
³A stroke of inspiration spawned by
late-night hunger delivered both the
concept and the provocative name
for Atlanta entrepreneur Pinky Cole’s
first-ever plant-based restaurant
venture: Slutty Vegan. Cole knew the
name would be an attention grabber,
which is exactly what was needed
to introduce Atlanta’s meat-eating
population to the benefits of plant-
based food. And she got it right. JustPINKY
COLE
ERIC
ADAMS
³Brooklyn Borough President Eric
Adams is transforming the city that
never sleeps with a robust political
vision imbued with healthy vegan
values. After being diagnosed with
type 2 diabetes in 2016, the former
police officer and Democratic state
senator swore off animal products
and learned firsthand the life-
changing benefits of a plant-based
diet. Invigorated with new energy,
Adams forged a campaign to bring
awareness to the benefits of a meat-
and dairy-free diet, leading to the
development of the landmark Plant-
Based Lifestyle Medicine Program
throughout New York City hospitals.
A vocal proponent of Meatless
Mondays in the education system,
Adams has also spearheaded the
Ban The Baloney resolution to keep
processed meats off public school
lunch menus. With a mayoral run
likely in 2021, it’s clear that this
political powerhouse will rest at
nothing until Brooklyn is the first all-
vegan borough in New York City.THE POLITICIAN