Women now dominate all aspects of cannabis business, from cultivation to research. Their presence upends stereotypes and sets new standards.
Gender diversity fosters better-informed science and contributes to a healthier product ecosystem. Recognizing female leadership is not only morally appropriate, but strategically crucial as well.
Latin American Women
Latina women have demonstrated tremendous leadership and success in cannabis despite its reputation as a “boys club”, from starting businesses to opening spaces for diversity. Latina female leaders are making waves within an evolving industry by using their voices and networks to shape its future.
Susie Plascencia, co-owner of LA-based glass bong company Mota Glass and founder of Instagram community Latinas in Cannabis, created an environment which celebrated her work and those of Latina entrepreneurs alike. Her commitment to improving representation led her to establish the Latina Entrepreneur Academy which trains and mentors female entrepreneurs driven by this goal.
Vale Verdosa, President of Activismo Cannabico Chile organization, was inspired to advocate and raise awareness about medicinal uses for cannabis after her own struggle against debilitating dysmenorrhea. Through advocacy and education of medical cannabis use in Chile she has played a crucial role in changing culture as well as addressing issues regarding government overreach when it comes to medical cannabis usage.
Women Entrepreneurs
Women have made significant strides in the cannabis industry over recent years, taking on various roles and founding their own companies. From opening dispensaries themselves to leading major marijuana firms as C-Level officers – women in this space have emerged to challenge male dominance while advocating for more diversity and inclusivity in this male-dominated space.
Women in the cannabis industry make invaluable contributions that go far beyond business ownership. Their contributions span from educating their communities to helping reduce stigma associated with cannabis use, to supporting natural healthcare as an alternative to pharmaceutical medications.
Women have also proven a driving force in cannabis research and innovation, helping advance medical marijuana and spur breakthroughs in the field. A prominent female researcher like Dr. Sue Sisley is working to use cannabis as an antidepressant treatment, advocating for expanded funding that includes women participants; such gender diversity helps enhance research while producing discoveries that benefit all industry players.
Women Leaders
Women leaders are leading the charge when it comes to creating and expanding businesses in the cannabis sector. From consumer product companies that market products directly to them to labs that test quality and safety standards, women leaders are shaping the present and future of this burgeoning sector.
Women are also playing an instrumental role in driving research advancement in the cannabis industry. Researchers such as Sue Sisley are leading efforts to explore how cannabis can treat conditions like PTSD.
Women are making DEI a priority as they create networks, mentorship programs and industry associations that empower aspiring cannabis entrepreneurs to succeed in the space. Furthermore, they actively work toward decreasing the disproportionate representation of white male executives at major cannabis corporations and cultivators and thus creating an inclusive future for all involved in cannabis cultivation.
Women in Research
Women are at the forefront of cannabis research. From scientists and researchers, to cultivators and quality producers like Nancy Do from Endo Industries’ organic supply chain company; women have made tremendous strides forward. Women continue to make an impactful mark in cannabis with solutions rooted in plant medicine, social equity, sustainability, and inclusion that create lasting solutions.
Jenna Goldring, cofounder of The High Confectionary, founded her business to fulfill a need in the market. Their low-dose gummies give consumers control over their consumption and therapeutic experience.
As legalization gains ground, women have emerged as powerful forces within the cannabis industry. Redefining narratives, dismantling norms and driving innovation within this space. With their passion and drive they’re helping other women become leaders within this realm.