#CareerFocus With Nutritional Consultant Vanessa Ascencao 

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Tell us a bit about yourself?

I am a mom to a beautiful little 6 year old who is my greatest gift and light of my life. I am also happily married to my person in this lifetime, 12 years strong and it just gets better. 

We are both in the wellness industry and both very committed to helping others live their best life.

I am an avid researcher and read at least a book a week and listen to podcasts every chance I get – I believe knowledge is everything and especially today we need to invest in our state of mind and overall vitality. I love learning.

I am blessed to live in Cape Town where I walk on the beach front most days and I am a regular hiker on a beautiful landscape. I am obsessed with farmers markets, artisanal coffee, locally made goods, natural skin care, Gua sha, dry body brushing, red-light therapy, essential oils and simple living. I pray daily and I live in so much gratitude for my life. The is a game changer for me!

I come from a Portuguese background, and I am so proud of my heritage and upbringing – my family taught me so much about integrity, family, love, challenges and food.

What work do you do?

I am a nutritional consultant. I have a Master’s of Science in nutrition and a functional medicine certification.

How long have you been in the industry?

Over 20 years. My incredible mom was one of the first women to start a health care company in South Africa called Bioharmony. She is still a dynamic player in the industry today. Healthcare and health optimisation is how I grew up and what I was exposed too all my life. It is something I am passionate about, especially, as we know health is our responsibility and our greatest wealth.

Has your work always been your passion? Tell us why?

Yes, I have seen radical transformations in people with chronic illnesses/diseases by implementing simple lifestyle strategies. Given the right environment the body heals. There is so much we can do to change our physical and mental health.

Being a woman in the industry – what does it take? 

Just be you, find your signature/philosophy, be authentic and committed. Transparency is key in nutrition as it is constantly evolving. Do what you love each day and what gets you out of bed.

What has been the most difficult challenge of your career?

My belief in myself, my own thoughts and inner challenges. We need to work on this daily as we are often our own worst enemies right? I am reading a lot about being Stoic. We need to DO hard things. This is what builds mental fortitude and grit and builds your confidence.

Plans for the future

I am involved in some exciting projects, product development, wellness retreats and talks with amazing people in the industry, and I have just founded VVOZ which is a communication’s company specialising in health for the wellness industry.