Change Make-Hers: Women to Watch 2023
As the cannabis industry rapidly expands, the need for diverse, innovative, and qualified leaders also grows. Historically, leaders within the cannabis industry have been predominantly male. Now, in 2023 it’s time to recognize and celebrate women in cannabis making substantial contributions during this pivotal time.
Jane West, the founder of Women Grow, has steadfastly led the charge to help support and connect women in the cannabis industry. Women Grow is a professional networking organization West created in 2014 to Connect, Educate, Empower, and Inspire (CEEI), the next generation of women cannabis leaders. West is also the CEO of Jane West Enterprises, a cannabis lifestyle brand that includes a line of products and accessories designed to “make life better.” Her professional accomplishments and relentless advocacy continue to empower and support women in the field.
Countless women are working within the cannabis industry in various roles, from cultivation and processing to sales and marketing. These women are integral in helping shape a more innovative approach to the success and growth of the industry.
5 Women To Watch in Cannabis
Carlen Costa, Clinical Sexologist and Psychotherapist
Costa is a leading cannabis activist using the power of the plant to help improve love and intimacy for all. As a licensed clinical sexologist and psychotherapist, she’s working to empower women, men, and spectrum-based gender identities to explore and embrace their sexuality. She is using a multifaceted approach to advocate and empower women specifically. She is a 3X best-selling Amazon author of “Love: The Women’s Guide to Not F*cking Settling,” founder of The Everyday Goddess, and in 2018 founded a charity foundation, The Goddess Foundation, to support women and girls empowerment programs throughout Canada.
Featured on several cannabis podcasts and significant publications like VICE Canada, CNC, CTV, and Kind Magazine, her pleasure-forward attitude is not shying away from the acutely unique relationship between cannabis and sexuality.
Olivia Alexandra, CEO of Kush Queen
From budtender to CEO, Olivia Alexandra has used her social media presence to share her personal journey and entrepreneurial expertise with unapologetic realness. With over 15 years in the cannabis industry, Alexandra is the co-founder and CEO of the wildly popular Kush Queen. With celebrity followers, this award-winning cannabis brand features the number one cannabis bath bomb in the market and numerous hemp, transdermal, and minor cannabinoid products. Transformed over the years to align with new standards and practices in the cannabis industry, Alexandra continues to lead with her initial mission: to provide an avenue of wellness and community accessible for all. Author of two books, she uses her success for those looking to learn more about the power of plants to benefit their everyday lives.
Based in Toronto, social media educator Anna, The Cannabinista showcases cannabis-infused recipes. Cannabis in the food and beverage industry has been on trend and continues to grow. Instead of hiring a private chef for a dinner party, Anna provides a more affordable solution. Craving something sweet? Try making Anna’s infused strawberry coconut popsicles. If you prefer savory, how does an infused pork belly carbonara sound? When in doubt, an inflicted espresso martini isn’t a bad way to end the day. Her at-home recipes are easy enough for a novice and provide a welcomed alternative to traditional cannabis products. For inspiration in the kitchen, be sure to give her a follow!
Julie Domingo, CEO of Canna Reps
Learn cannabis tips from a professionally certified cannabis sommelier Julie Domingo. Domingo is a member of the Canna Reps community, which is composed of cannabis industry experts, researchers, growers, dispensary operators, and brand ambassadors. The mission is to help eliminate the stigmas and spread insightful truths about the cannabis industry. While navigating motherhood, Domingo’s mission is to help people learn about cannabis consumption in a mindful practice.
Mikelina Belaineh, Director of Impact at Last Prisoner Project
Mikelina Belaineh is the director of Impact at a non-profit advocacy organization called The Last Prisoner Project. The organization was founded from the belief that no one should remain incarcerated for cannabis offenses. Belaineh has advocated for injustice from a young age, leading them to pursue an education at Harvard Law School. After working in underprivileged communities, Belanieh took an interest in incarcerated and formerly incarcerated women. At the Last Prisoner Project, they now work at the pivotal intersection of criminal justice and cannabis reform. Mikelina’s support and expertise help women struggling through the system.
Research shows diverse teams lead to more innovative and effective solutions. Companies with more diverse and inclusive leadership often outperform companies with less diversity financially. As women bring their skills and perspectives to the cannabis industry, it allows untapped opportunities, success, and growth. The most crucial component is prioritizing and creating opportunities for women to hold executive, C-Suite positions. In doing so, the industry welcomes new skills and perspectives at the decision-making tables. For the cannabis industry, women in executive roles may lead to more profit in 2023 and beyond.