Chef, Author, Restaurateur, Hollan Hamid
Hollan's love inspired, plant-based cuisine has been a staple at her restaurant and high end catering in Kauai, Hawaii and has been featured in GQ, Condé Nast, and Insider. She is also a regular contributor to HGTV, VEG News and Hawaii Magazine.
Hollan's story really began at age 29, when she was diagnosed with gestational diabetes and the doctor warned her that she had a 60% chance of developing diabetes 2 within the next decade. She also struggled with endometriosis and kidney stones, with 2 surgeries to attempt to stop them. But they always returned.
So, she decided to take her health into her own hands. Eventually, she found her way to a vegan diet and lifestyle and now her blood work looks better at 41 then it did at 29.
During this time, she started and successfully sold one of the top Vegan restaurants in Kauai which included regular visits from many of the island's famous residents.
But, even more important than the accolades she's received, Hollan discovered that the choice to love herself enough to make healthier choices in the first place - and then to share what she's learned with others - is her ultimate passion. She lives to breathe life and love into those she serves, whether it's on a plate or in their heart.
Her new cookbook, Good Food Gratitude, comes out soon.