Queens Man Is a Finalist in PETA’s ‘Sexiest Vegan Next Door’ Contest

Aspiring Singer’s Allergies Disappeared After Switch to Healthy New Diet

For Immediate Release:
April 25, 2014

Contact:
Sophia Charchuk 202-483-7382

PETA’s Sexiest Vegan Next Door 2014 contest is down to the wire, and 31-year-old Queens resident Drew Khandi could take home the grand prize. That’s because he has beaten out hundreds of other entrants from across the U.S. to become one of 10 male contestants to advance to the final round. Two lucky winners—one male and one female—will each receive a free vacation for two to Maui, Hawaii, courtesy of HumaneTrip.com.

“Going vegan can help make you feel better on the inside, look better on the outside, and save the lives of more than 100 animals a year,” says PETA Special Projects Manager Alicia Woempner. “On average, vegans are fitter and trimmer than meat-eaters are, and that makes them sexier, too.”

Khandi—who is a manager of Peacefood Cafe—went vegan more than two years ago after watching the influential documentary Forks Over Knives. The first thing he noticed was a big boost in his energy and stamina during workouts. And although he previously suffered from a host of allergies, all of his symptoms vanished after he made the switch. Khandi, who holds a degree from St. John’s University, aspires to be a professional singer. His vegan role models include singer-songwriter Usher and author and radio talk show host Gary Null.

Voting for the finalists to help PETA determine the winners ends at noon EDT on May 2. PETA will select the winners based on several factors, including vote count. See the full contest details here. Winners will be notified and announced by May 6.

For more information and to cast your vote, please click here.