While historically models have been associated with vapid vanity, the models and influencers of today are changing that stigma, by doing things differently. A prime example of this is Austrian model, Katharina Mazepa, who uses her impressive platform for a good cause. The former Miss Vienna is an avid animal rights activist and proponent for sustainability. Between shoots and shows, the stunner shares her views and valuable information with a whopping 530K+ following on her Instagram. We caught up with the big-hearted beauty to find out more about her passion.
Q: What got you interested in animal rights?
A: I actually became a vegetarian at 11 years old. There wasn’t really one big trigger, but rather the more I thought about where my food was coming from, and the more research I did, the more I saw issues with it. I realized how interconnected everything is, from the animals to the environment—in terms of carbon dioxide emissions.
Q: Can you tell us about some of your past efforts?
A: Back in Europe, I used to volunteer with Greenpeace in high school—spending my lunches gathering signatures. I also worked with 4 Paws, back home in Austria. I also used to give presentations in University on how and why to switch to a vegan lifestyle, and even on topics like sustainable fishing. Now though I have shifted my focus on digital activism, which during the last six months was really all that was available. Since I have a good-sized platform I am able to raise awareness and help collect donations for animal rights organizations and initiatives.
Photo: Courtesy of dreamstate
Q: Tell us about your new project?
A: I’m currently working with several sustainable brands to create social campaigns and initiatives that will raise funding for organizations like the World Wildlife Fund, Greenpeace, and others.
Q: Is there something you tell people to try and get on board with your vision?
A: I’m not an extremist, and I don’t think you can convert someone to veganism overnight, or over one conversation. But I do think that it’s good to share the numbers, to make people aware of the side effects on not only animals, but the environment. I try to spread awareness and invite people to be more mindful in their daily lives, because that does have an impact.
Q: How do you utilize Instagram to promote animal rights?
A: I’m currently doing a lot of stories, where I talk about animal rights and why I’m so passionate about this topic. I also share informative content from environmental and animal organization accounts, especially if they ever have petitions that need to be promoted—a recent one was about animal testing in beauty.
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