An edgy food influencer is taking over the streets of Atlanta with plant-based fast food and a brand that is turning the vegan lifestyle on its head.
Meet Slutty Vegan.
The Slutty Vegan “Slut Mobile” has become one of the most sought-after food trucks in Atlanta since its debut in early August. The powerhouse behind this hyper-growing business and plant-based food truck phenomenon is Pinky Cole, a decorated television producer and serial entrepreneur.
A devout vegan, Cole saw a niche to create fast-casual junk food that is completely plant-based. She hopes to be a voice and example to other Black entrepreneurs who have a vision about creating something they believe in and love.
In less than a few months, the “Slutty” revolution has vegans and meat lovers alike standing in line for hours to experience the juicy goodness of plant-based burgers. One of Slutty Vegan’s secret weapons is Impossible Foods, the creator behind the completely plant-based Impossible patty. Cole says the patty — paired with a combination of her homemade ingredients and sauces — adds the extra flair that keeps diners coming back.
So far, Cole says her concept of fast-casual, completely plant-based “junk food” is proving to be a success, earning kudos on the company’s Instagram from notable figures such as Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms and music mogul Jermaine Dupri.
Based on the success of the food truck, Cole plans to open a Slutty Vegan flagship retail location during the week of Super Bowl 2019 in Atlanta.
While some label the vegan lifestyle as a fad diet, Cole extols the health benefits of her all-plant-based foods, including a lower prevalence of obesity, heart disease and diabetes.
Rolling out recently caught up with the enterprising entrepreneur and vegan evangelist to learn more about her, her growing business and her goal to make a meatless lifestyle sexy.
As a Black woman, what do you consider your superpower to be?
My superpower is that I’m never scared. My father always told me that nothing beats a trial but a failure, and this mantra has helped me to make the scariest decisions of my life. I will bet my last dollar on something I believe in because I know there will always be a takeaway. Win, lose or draw, I always push myself beyond my wildest desires and, in turn, I always win.
What thoughtful or encouraging piece of advice would you give to your younger self?
I would tell my younger self to stay ready. Years ago, I heard comedian Mo’Nique say, “When you stay ready you never have to get ready.” I learned what this meant as an adult. If I could go back in time, I wouldn’t change a thing. I would just remind the younger me to always be prepared.
What are your thoughts on taking risks?
Risk-taking keeps you on your feet. It tests your abilities in a way that will teach you about process. Had I never taken a risk, Slutty Vegan would’ve never been born. Remember you miss every shot that you don’t take.
As a successful woman in business, what is your greatest achievement?
My greatest achievement is knowing that I am bringing different cultures together in the name of plant-based food. It’s a beautiful feeling to know that I am successfully helping people to see food in a different way. I am fulfilled knowing that while I get to walk in my purpose. I’m also shifting the culture.
Why is it important for women of color to lead and work in leadership roles and decision-making capacities?
Historically, Black women have been the most educated yet underrated group in the country. Today, the barriers still exist, but it is up to women of color to redefine that story. This is why we can’t wait for an opportunity to be handed to us, we have to show up and represent. There are little people watching our every move. We have no choice but to crack the ceiling. It is my duty to do just that.
Slutty Vegan fans can follow the truck’s location on the company’s Instagram @sluttyveganatl.
— courtney manlove
