Sheena G. is a creative powerhouse with a rich background spanning fashion, education, music, and activism.
With a Master’s Degree in Fashion and experience at renowned companies like Target Corporation and Marshall Fields, she’s honed her skills across roles including fashion tech designer, director of sales, and creative art director. She’s excelled in various facets of the fashion world, from trend research to brand development, and has shared her expertise as an educator.
She launched her own successful fashion label, International Citizen [i.CTZN], and has worked with celebrities and major production companies as a wardrobe stylist and costume designer. Her latest venture, International Citizen Productions (ICProductions), showcases her talent in directing and producing music videos, commercials, and branding content. Alongside her creative endeavors, she’s an accomplished violinist and passionate animal activist, demonstrating a commitment to both artistry and social causes. Sheena G.’s multifaceted expertise continues to make a lasting impact across industries.
As a fervent advocate for animal rights, Sheena actively champions causes through her founding of online initiatives such as “Mercy for Chinese Dogs” and “Pure Beauty with Sheena,” aiming to advance both compassion and a sustainable lifestyle. With her distinctive fusion of creativity, proficiency, and a deeply compassionate ethos, Sheena G. persistently shapes the landscape of the creative and fashion realms.
Tell us more about yourself, please
If you believe that one life is worth more than another, then you lack #humanity in your stance
Sheena g. 希昀
I’m Sheena Gao, originally from Shanghai, China. I ventured to the United States to pursue a master’s degree in music, fine art, and fashion.
What led you to embrace veganism? How many years have you followed this lifestyle?
My journey as a musician began with classical concert violinist performances in orchestras and chamber music groups, and now I perform electric violin with rock bands.
In addition to my musical pursuits, I am a fashion designer and stylist.
I co-founded and designed the lifestyle fashion label International Citizen [i.CTZN], an innovative, edgy contemporary fashion line for men and women with street-style flair.
With millions of animals suffering in this world, brutally slaughtered for human pleasure – from their bodies being consumed to being used for entertainment or experimentation – my passion for being a vegan for animals with compassion and awakening has only grown stronger
Sheena g. 希昀
With a firm commitment to environmental sustainability and cruelty-free practices, I blend my passion for fashion with my artistic vision, ensuring our products have minimal environmental impact and contain noanimal products.
A percentage of the proceeds goes to fund the fight against the dog meat trade worldwide through the Facebook group Mercy for Chinese Dogs.
i.CTZN became successful after its debut in OC Fashion Week, LA Fashion Week, and having been featured as a new designer at 2011’s MAGIC, Apparel News, OC Weekly, TheOC County Register, Style Binge, Coastal Magazine, 944, as well as the blogger LA FashionSnob.com.
Most recently, I work as a freelance fashion/wardrobe stylist/costume designerwith Capitol Records, Interscope Records, Columbia Records, Rocket in My Pocket Production, the Shaping Sound Dance Company, Coffee Beans and Tea Leaves, amongothers, on high-profile groups such as Chainsmokers (nominated for Best MTV MusicAward-Best Video), Selena Gomez, Zedd, Daya, Jamie Scott, and Coffee Beans Social Media campaigns.
Through activism, education, and raising awareness, I strive to be a powerful advocate for those who cannot speak for themselves
Sheena g. 希昀
Beyond my passion for the worlds of fashion and music, I am a dedicated animal activist and contributor to the fight against the dog meat trade.
I am part of the Global Anti-DogMeat Trade Coalition and serve on the board of directors at the Animal Hope and Wellness Foundation.
Through my social media platforms, including Mercy for Chinese Dogs, Animalz R Us, PureBeauty with Sheena, and the recently launched Vegan Women’s Club, I strive to raise awareness and promote global animal welfare.
Organizing dog adoption initiatives and collaborating with diverse organizations are just some of the ways I champion our cause, dedicating myself to advocating for those who cannot speak for themselves, including initiatives for organizing dog adoption.
Serving as a valuable resource for many fellow animal activists, I have collaborated with organizations such as In Defense of Animals.
This lifestyle is a powerful way to align my actions with my deepest values. It represents my profound understanding of the interconnectedness of all living beings and my unwavering desire to coexist in harmony with nature
Sheena g. 希昀
Vanderpump Dogs, UnchainedTV, St. Martin’s Animal Foundation, Stop Yulin Forever, DuoDuo Animal Project, Humane Society International, Wings of Rescue, Yoga Stops Yulin, I Stand With My Pack, Switch4Good, 812 Faithful Dog Rescue in Beijing China, and Ping An AFu Rescue in Nanjing China.
I actively engage in various activities such as fundraising, participating in public speaking engagements, and serving as a video spokesperson on subjects, recording and filming content to further advocate for animal rights and the fight against the dog meat trade.
Additionally, I am involved in protesting and rescuing dogs,organizing dog adoption efforts to combat the dog meat trade.
My journey took a surprising turn back in 2017. I stumbled upon some disturbing posts about the dog meat trade in Asia on social media, and it hit me like a ton of bricks.
Despite being from China myself, I’d never encountered anything like it before. It was a real eye-opener.
Feeling deeply affected, I couldn’t just standby. I felt compelled to join the fight against this cruel practice. But as I got more involved, something bigger dawned on me.
I began to seethe broader issues within the meat industry and the concept of speciesism.
Why do we shower love on some animals but turn a blind eye to the suffering of others? This realization sparked a personal transformation.
Sheena g. 希昀
Within a year, I made the leap from being a meat eater to embracing vegetarianism, and then eventually, veganism. It’s been quite the journey, one that’s opened my eyes to a whole new way of living and caring forour planet.
Any interesting stories during this period?
I remember the day I was invited to a Hollywood film screening by a friend. He didn’t tell me anything about the movie, so I was excited for the film to start. I found myself seated next to actor Geoffrey Rush, and the film turned out to be “Unity” by film director, producer, and animal rights and environmental activist Shaun Monson.
The opening scene depicted two cows being forced into a tunnel to their slaughter. I cried throughout the entire film—it was incredibly powerful and soul awakening. That painful scene left a mark on my soul that can never be erased. That moment marked the start of my vegan journey.
What difficulties do you encounter when seeking vegan food or dining out with friends? How do you manage to navigate and overcome these challenges?
Every day, I wake up with a fire in my heart, knowing that I am making a difference in the lives of innocent creatures
Sheena g. 希昀
Living in the heart of the vegan paradise, Los Angeles, I feel incredibly fortunate. Here, the options for amazing vegan and vegetarian eateries are endless–from fancy restaurants to cozy cafes, to bustling food trucks. Even the non-vegan restaurants are on board, offeringup delicious options and tweaking dishes to meet our needs.
Sometimes, they even have a separate menu for vegans. It’s like a dream come true! But, it’s when I venture outside of LA that I realize not everywhere has caught up just yet.It’s a bit of a reality check, but it’s also a chance to spread the plant-based mindset and maybe inspire some change along the way.
I have a lot of friends who are in creative fields like fashion, music, and film, from all overthe world. Being in LA, it’s the norm for us to go out for brunch, dinner, parties, and events.
Since I began my vegan journey, I find myself discussing the sensitive issue of compassionquite often. I feel blessed that most of my friends share the same sentiment, as they are all animal lovers.
In fact, the majority of them have joined me on this journey, and now we enjoy life without harming others. For those friends who are still at the beginning of their journey, I understand that we’re allheading in the same direction; they’re just not quite there yet.
Rather than preaching, I prefer to set examples. I introduce them to films that focus on veganism and drop somestatistics for them to ponder. I believe they’ll get there eventually. Additionally, I’m lucky to be part of a huge community of vegans in Los Angeles.
I’m blessed to know hundreds of amazing vegans with whom I can share experiences, news, new restaurants, recipes, andmore. Life is so much more enjoyable when you’re surrounded by like-minded friends who share the same values and care about the world we live in.
How do you feel about being a vegan?
I love being vegan! It’s not just a diet; it’s a mindset and a lifestyle
Sheena g. 希昀
Living with a clear conscience, kindness, and empathy is truly fulfilling. As they say, if you can live happily and healthily without harming others, why not do it? Not only do I know that I’m living a beautiful life for all living beings, but I also feel healthy and happy.
Compassion is beautiful!I don’t want to absorb the suffering and anguish of murdered animals.As a vegan stylist, I dress stylishly without using and consuming any animal products or supporting animal testing. I aim to show people that you don’t need to wear animals to look stylish.
As I always say, “Be cool, never cruel.”
What approach would you take to encourage someone who hasn’t embraced veganism to give meatless food a try?
I am their voice, advocating for their suffering to be heard and acknowledged
Sheena g. 希昀
People go vegan for three main reasons: for animals, for the environment, and for health. I recommend watching movies related to these specific topics to address their concerns, such as Earthlings, Unity (for animal welfare), Cowspiracy (for the environment), What the Health, You Are What You Eat, and Game Changers (for health).
These films can plant seedsin their minds and raise awareness about the impact of their choices. I also take them to vegan restaurants to experience a variety of meatless dishes firsthand.
Whether dining out or preparing simple recipes at home together, tasting delicious and satisfying plant-based meals can be eye-opening.
Leading by example is key. When they see me living life to the fullest, healthy, happy, and full of vitality, it can inspire change. I show them that embracing a plant-based lifestyle is not only feasible but also enjoyable and fulfilling.
I share my own experiences, favorite restaurants, and the positive impact it has had on my health, the environment, and animal welfare.
Sharing stories, social media posts, and being patient are important.
Encouraging them to gradually incorporate more plant-based foods and reduce their consumption of animal products allows them to ease into the transition and discover new favorites along the way.
Could you suggest some excellent vegan eateries or dishes? What makes these options your top picks?
There are over 400 restaurants serving veganand vegan-friendly food around Los Angeles.
My favorite vegan/vegetarian places in Los Angeles are Crossroads Kitchen, Real FoodDaily, Nic’s On Beverly, Butcher’s Daughter (vegetarian), Gracias Madre, Café Gratitude, Sugar Taco, Green Leaf, Pura Vita (Italian), Monty’s Good Burger, Planta Cocina, Araya’s Place (Thai), and Green Leaves, among many others
What are some common misunderstandings about being vegan? How do you address and educate others about these misconceptions?
The biggest misconception is the belief that a vegan diet lacks protein, leading people to assume that individuals following these diets appear unhealthy and unattractive.
However, it’s not the case that obtaining enough protein on a plant-based diet is challenging. In reality, hardly anyone ever visits a doctor due to a lack of protein, whether they are vegan or not.
Protein derived from plant sources is clean and healthful, unlike the secondary protein found in animal flesh.
Some of the largest animals, such as elephants, horses,cows, rhinos, gorillas, giraffes, and hippos, are plant-based. demonstrating the abundanceof protein-rich plant sources available, including tofu, tempeh, lentils, beans, quinoa, nuts,and seeds.
Educating others about these protein-rich options and emphasizing that a well-planned vegan diet can fulfill all nutritional needs is crucial. It’s worth noting that animal fat and protein found in meats are associated with a higher risk for heart disease, cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure and premature death.
Although no comprehensive study has been conducted on the exact number of individuals following a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle, recent data suggests a significant percentage of the global population adheres to these dietary choices.
In 2023, a study revealed that 22% of the global population identifies as vegetarian.
Additionally, another report indicated thatnearly 10% of American adults consider themselves vegan or vegetarian, with 23% of Americans attempting to reduce their meat consumption annually—a figure that continuesto rise steadily.
Veganism is rapidly gaining momentum as more Americans embrace the lifestyle. I eagerly anticipate the day when adopting a plant-based lifestyle becomes the norm, as this represents the only sustainable future for humanity, our health, and the environment
For someone who is just starting to transition to a meatless diet, what guidance would you offer?
I personally believe that being part of a community is powerful in facilitating lifestyle changes, as it provides individuals with great moral support, inspiration, encouragement,and knowledge.
Whenever I encounter someone who is “vegan-curious,” I invite them to join me in vegan outings and events, recommend films for them to watch, suggest socialmedia groups to join, and encourage them to approach the transition with an open mindand a spirit of exploration.
On one occasion, I even hosted a party specifically to welcomenew vegans who lacked a supportive community, aiming to show them that there are many others like them ready for a change.
I suggest starting by gradually incorporating more plant-based foods into their diet while slowly reducing their intake of meat and other animal products.
It is my mission to shed light on the immense cruelty inflicted upon them and to inspire change in the hearts and minds of others
Sheena g. 希昀
It’s important to be patient and allow the transition to unfold at theirown pace. Every stepthey take towards a meatless diet is a positive one for their health, the environment, and animal welfare.
Interesting stories about being a vegan
I was performing chamber music at an event when the organizer found out I am vegan. She couldn’t believe it and remarked that I looked different from other vegans/vegetarians, as they often appear pale and unhealthy. This misconception is precisely the old stigma surrounding people who follow plant-based diets, suggesting they lack proper nutritionand thus look unhealthy.
I laughed and reassured her that this is not true. I explained that there is a whole community of beautiful, healthy, compassionate, and stylish vegans whom I could introduce her to.
Though I don’t force people to make an ethical choice or abstainfrom eating animal products, I always take the opportunity to let people know I choose veganism for animals, and I live happily and healthily without harming others.
I believe they too can make the same choice when they are ready, as that is the only path for humanity.
Sooner or later, they will be on it.
Closing remarks
In closing, I want to emphasize the significance of our individual choices in shaping a more compassionate and sustainable world.
Whether it’s through advocating for animal rights,promoting plant-based lifestyles, or supporting like-minded communities, each action contributes to positive change.
Let us continue to learn, grow, and spread awareness, strivingtowards a future where kindness, empathy, and respect for all living beings prevail. May ourshared efforts pave the way for a brighter, more compassionate tomorrow.
Sheena g. 希昀
Creative Director
Artist_MediaContentProducer_Violinist_Photographer_Stylist_WorldTraveler_Vegan🌱- DM4 PRICING & BOOKING
@icproductionsofficial @sheena_animal_defender @sheenasworld
all images courtesy of Sheena g. 希昀