Recently in Brisbane, I had the pleasure of being the makeup artist for Amanda Rootsey on a photo shoot and segment for ‘Today Tonight’ (http://www.amandarootsey.com.au).
Amanda has worked as an International model and featured in ad campaigns for major global brands. A couple of years ago, she was diagnosed with cancer, however this didn’t stop the young beauty. In the process of fighting her illness she completely changed her lifestyle, she became a vegan and an advocate for Mother Earth. She is also the co-founder of VeganEra, which is a news hub for everything vegan (www.veganera.com).
With her strong passion for taking care of our planet and with 10 years of experience in the modelling industry, she has rightfully been named ‘Australia’s first exclusive Eco Model’. She now works solely with eco-friendly and ethical companies that share her values. This girl truly is inspiring and after talking with her, you can’t help but think about what you can do to make this world a better place to live…
Why has Today Tonight taken an interest in you?
From what I understand, Today Tonight are interested in covering my journey from being a fashion model, to being diagnosed with cancer and how I’ve changed my life since beating it. They came up to our home and were very interested in the simple way I live with my boyfriend and puppy. They then spent an afternoon filming me back at work as an Eco Model, where I was lucky enough to have my make up done by you!
What is an Eco model?
An eco-model is a fashion model who works exclusively with eco-friendly and ethical companies. For my clients, it means that the face of their brand also shares their values and for me, it’s nice to work with clients who are on a similar wave-length!
Are there other Eco models in the world that you look up to? or look to for inspiration?
Yes there is one in particular in the US called Summer Rayne Oakes (http://www.summerrayne.net/) who has inspired me. She is very successful there and is also involved in other projects that are working towards a brighter & greener future.
Why did you decide to get into modeling again?
To be honest, after changing my way of life and becoming passionate about the environment, I thought my modeling days were over. After doing some research, I realized how detrimental the fashion industry can be on our beautiful planet. But I was approached by a couple of eco-friendly companies, including Sanctus Stones Motivational Jewellery (www.sanctusstones.com) to be in their latest campaign and it has grown from there. I am now an official ambassador for Sanctus Stones and work with the company on a deeper level, acting as a role model for their customers and assisting the brand with ways that they can further incorporate sustainability in to their business model.
Have you always been into eco products and organic living?
No not at all! A few years ago I didn’t know the first thing about the environment, health or organic living. But after going through cancer, I realized how fragile life is and I started to think about the type of world we are leaving for future generations. You don’t have to look very far to see that we are destroying the planet, so I started to look in to ways I could reduce my impact. I learned that raising animals for human consumption is the leading cause of climate change. I was shocked! I decided to go vegan for this reason and for health reasons and I haven’t looked back. My boyfriend and I try our best to live simply and we are not connected to any town water, electricity, sewage or phone lines. We rely completely on nature for our power, water and for a lot of our food. We really love it!
What is your definition of beauty?
It probably sounds cliché but I really believe that beauty comes from within. No amount of make up or expensive products can compare with a happy, healthy woman who shines from within.
What is your most favorite makeup product and why?
I absolutely adore Adorn Mineral Cosmetics! (www.adornmineralcosmetics.com.au). I have only recently discovered them and they feel incredible on the skin – it is as though you are not wearing any make up at all. They are completely toxic free and cruelty free but they don’t compromise on quality. The lipsticks and glosses are still full of vibrant colour, even though they are completely natural.
What is your beauty secret?
You are what you eat! When I eat a high raw, vegan diet and drink lots of water and fresh juices, I notice a difference straight away. Right now, I’m enjoying too much dark chocolate and chips as we head in to the holidays!
If you could change the world in one way, what would it be?
I would ask everyone to consider going vegan. If we have enough compassion in our hearts to let animals live in peace, then it goes without saying that we would also have peace amongst humans. What a beautiful world that would be!
What is the worst thing about living 'off the grid'? and what is the best thing about it?
The worst thing about living off the grid is that we are quite disconnected from the world and are quite remote. But these are also the best things about it! It’s unbelievably peaceful where we live and there is a simple pleasure in getting back to basics.
What inspires you to live the life that you do?
It just feels right to try to live each day without harming another being and without taking too much from our lovely little planet. I’m inspired every single day by all sorts of things, from a little birdy that wakes me up in the morning with his song, to the many people I have had the pleasure of meeting who have found their passion in life.
What are 3 things you couldn't live without?
I can’t imagine life without my little family – Dave and our puppy Trudi. But as for things, I think I would struggle without my Macbook, my kettle (for endless cups of tea!) and I hate to admit it, but my iPhone! Haha so much for being off the grid!
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