Tamara Arbib

Founder, Rebel Kitchen, on Madonna, The Matrix and sharks

What was your first-ever job? A camp counsellor for a summer camp in America looking after four-year-old kids.

What’s been your worst job interview? I’m an entrepreneur through and through. I’ve never had a job interview!

What was the first music single you bought? Madonna - Erotic. I’m seriously embarrassed by this! I don’t like Madonna now, but she was a marketing genius.

How do you describe your job to your mates? I’ve never been one to do things by half, so I tell my friends I’m creating a global health food brand.

What’s the most rewarding part of your job? Knowing that we are positively changing people’s health and their relationship with food, while also trying to positively shift global food sustainability and food procurement.

What’s the least rewarding part? The stress of juggling a lot of balls simultaneously.

What’s your motto in life? Don’t worry, be happy.

What’s your nickname? T. I’m also seeing a worrying trend in internal emails with ‘Da boss’!

If you were allowed one dream perk what would it be? Free lunches from one of our favourite places: Wild Food Café, Vantra Vitao, The Detox Kitchen or Raw Imagination.

What’s your favourite movie? Why? The Matrix. I love the fact that it challenges our reality.

What’s been the most embarrassing moment in your life? I find public speaking nerve-wracking, but my message is important enough for me to break through that.

Any phobias? Sharks (thanks Jaws!).

If you could pick a celebrity to join your staff who would it be? Why? Jessica Alba, because she understands the importance of buying products that positively change the eco-system for the better.

If you could change one thing in the grocery industry what would it be? The archaic system of getting products listed with retailers, the difficulty in getting to meet buyers…

What luxury would you have on your desert island? Our Rebel Kitchen mylks! Failing that, a coconut opener.

What animal best reflects your personality and why? A lioness. I’m loud, strong and fiercely protective of my cubs, both at work and at home.

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