Kompi
- What can you tell us about yourself?
That’s like the most difficult thing you could ask an introvert! Well, I was born in Poland. I moved to this beautiful island almost 11 years ago. I’m a single father to three cheeky rescue cats. If I’m not tattooing or painting , I spend most of my free time on bicycle adventures around Cyprus. I am constantly discovering new places and enjoying the stunning nature.
- What does veganism mean to you?
I’ve been vegan for most of my adult life (since 2004), so at this point it has become part of personality I guess. It is definitely more than just a diet. I try to incorporate it into all aspects of my life. Not only by educating people about the environmental, ethical and health benefits of veganism, but also by showing people that even the small things you can do – like beach clean ups – can eventually lead to a greater environmental awaking. And being vegan is like the best thing you can do for the environment today, so the more people who discover the whole spectrum of veganism, the better! From time to time, I get messages from people who were inspired by the things I share on my social media platforms, and since then have either considered becoming, or actively went vegan. I’m trying to show people that compassion isn’t a weakness and that it is better to live with a hurting heart than a closed one. Even at my tattoo studio, Sixteen Rounds in Nicosia (where I work with two other amazing artists, Anna Cosmic and Ermina), we use ECO TAT products which are vegan, plant based and made of biodegradable plastic. Unfortunately, for hygiene reasons, we use a lot of single-use disposable waste. So we make sure that all, or at least most of it, is eco-friendly. That includes our inks. But to off-set our carbon footprint, we have also teamed up with MORE TREES, so that for every tattoo someone gets with us, a tree is planted by MORE TREES in one of their three projects in Kenya, Haiti and Madagascar.
- What led you to follow the vegan way of life?
I grew up in the 90’s amongst the punk and straight edge kids. Back then, vegetarianism was a big thing. And so, with time, as the straight edge movement evolved towards veganism, so did I.
- How easy or difficult it is to be vegan today?
Compared to back in the 90’s, today it is much easier than I ever would have imagined. Of course you need to know your way around it to ensure you still get all the nutrients that your body needs. It is not just about only have salad whenever you go out for lunch with your friends! But the food industry is becoming more and more vegan friendly, and there are so many more interesting and healthy options, which is pretty awesome.
- What is your favourite recipe?
Any vegan sweets are my favourite recipe! I’m a complete sweet tooth junky!
- Do you have a favourite product to suggest?
Homemade tofu from the Asian Market on Digeni Akrita near my house! To be honest, I make most of my food from the scratch using fresh, local produce from Cyprus. When it comes to other products, such as cleaning stuff for the house, or toothpaste and toiletries, I don’t really pay attention to the brand. As long as it’s vegan and in the store, I’m getting it.
- Are you inspired by any animal? If yes, which one?
Cats for sure! They have taught me some interesting things about social interaction and play a pretty significant role in inspiring my art.
- Any more comments?
Thank you guys for giving me this great opportunity and allowing me to share tips and information about my vegan life. I really appreciate all your hard work. May the force be with you!
- How may we contact you?
https://www.facebook.com/sixteenrounds
The views and opinions expressed at the section ‘Interview’ of CyprusVeganGuide.com are those of the interviewee and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of CyprusVeganGuide.com.
