We recently connected with Roushanna Gray and have shared our conversation below.

Roushanna, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Earning a full time living from one’s creative career can be incredibly difficult. Have you been able to do so and if so, can you share some of the key parts of your journey and any important advice or lessons that might help creatives who haven’t been able to yet?

Transitioning into full-time creative work at Veld and Sea has been a journey of passion, perseverance, and purpose. While it wasn’t an overnight success, I balanced my love for wild food exploration with saying yes to many other jobs in the early days. Building a portfolio of wild food experiences, networking with fellow creatives, and spending slow time learning in nature were all crucial steps. Diversifying income streams and slowly learning how to work in harmony with nature helped navigate the challenges of self-employment and then growing organically into the team and reach that Veld and Sea has currently. Throughout, my commitment to sustainability, community, and connection remained steadfast. Today, I’m proud of the progress made and excited for the future of sharing the beauty and bounty of the natural world with others. Reflecting on the journey, I remember the wise words of a mentor: while creativity may be innate, the skills for financial management can always be learned.

Roushanna, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

My foray into this industry was not a conventional one. Born and raised in Cape Town, South Africa, I was surrounded by the diverse landscapes of the Western Cape, which ignited my curiosity for the edible treasures hidden within nature. Drawing on my multicultural heritage and a profound respect for the land, I began to delve into the world of wild food foraging over a decade ago. Veld and Sea emerged from this passion, evolving into a nature-inspired business that offers a wide range of experience offerings centered around wild food exploration, sustainability, and ecological awareness. From wild food foraging workshops and immersive outdoor experiences to nature-inspired culinary classes and bespoke events, Veld and Sea strives to reconnect individuals with the natural world in a meaningful and educational way.
One of the core problems we aim to solve for our clients is the disconnect between modern society and the environment. Through our offerings, we provide opportunities for people to rekindle their relationship with nature, learn about sustainable living practices, and gain a deeper appreciation for the abundance of resources that surround us.
What sets Veld and Sea apart is our holistic approach to wild food exploration. We not only teach individuals how to forage for edible plants and seaweeds but also emphasize the importance of ethical harvesting practices, biodiversity conservation, and fostering a sense of stewardship for the environment. Our team of experienced chefs, foragers, and educators are deeply passionate about sharing their knowledge and instilling a sense of wonder and respect for the natural world.
I am most proud of the impact that Veld and Sea has had on our community and beyond. Seeing individuals light up with excitement as they discover the flavours of the wild or witnessing the transformation of someone’s perspective on sustainability is incredibly rewarding. Our main message to potential clients, followers, and fans is that Veld and Sea is not just a business; it’s a movement—a journey towards reconnecting with nature, fostering a sustainable future, and embracing the beauty of our natural surroundings.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

Supporting artists, creatives, and nurturing a thriving creative ecosystem is absolutely crucial for preserving the vibrancy and innovation of our culture. To ensure our artists and creators receive the love and support they deserve, there are several steps we can take. Firstly, we must advocate for proper funding for arts education programs, providing aspiring artists with the resources they need to develop their skills. Additionally, we should strive to create more accessible, nurturing, safe and supportive spaces where artists can freely express themselves without financial constraints. Fair compensation and acknowledgment are paramount – artists and creatives should be compensated equitably for their labor and talent, rather than merely offered exposure. Embracing diversity and inclusivity is essential to celebrating all voices and perspectives within our creative community. Encouraging collaborations and facilitating networking opportunities can further empower artists to thrive. And let’s not overlook the power of social media – sharing and promoting the work of artists online is a simple yet impactful way to show support. By prioritizing these efforts, we can foster a vibrant and flourishing creative community.

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

Reflecting on my journey, there are definitely resources I wish I had known about sooner. Firstly, more networking opportunities within my niche would have made the entrepreneurial path feel less solitary. Having someone to share ideas with and seek advice from would have been invaluable. Additionally, access to educational resources tailored for creatives, such as workshops on business skills and marketing, would have been incredibly beneficial. Learning these skills earlier would have greatly influenced how I approached my creative work. At the same time, I can appreciate that these lessons learned along the way underscore the importance of slow sustainable growth and the richly layered journey of becoming an entrepreneur.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://veldandsea.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/veldandsea/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/veldandsea/
• Linkedin: https://za.linkedin.com/in/roushanna-gray-32221aa9