Current Landscape of Female Leadership

The cannabis industry in North America, like many other sectors, has traditionally been dominated by men. However, a recent report entitled Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the Cannabis Industry has highlighted a shift: as of 2023, women now represent 39% of marijuana executives. This is a notable increase from 23.1% and 12.1% in previous years, marking a significant progression toward gender diversity in leadership roles.

Personal Insights from Industry Leaders

Lynn Gefen, Chief Executive and Legal Officer of Terrascend, emphasizes the inspiring momentum surrounding the entry of women into leadership positions across various fields. “In 2023, women made up 50.31% of their law firm peers, marking the majority of this role for the first time,” she states. Furthermore, women account for over 80% of human resource managers, showcasing a trend that fosters innovation and growth.

Wendy Bronfein, co-founder and Chief Brand Officer of Curio Wellness, reinforces the importance of female representation. She notes, “It’s important to recognize the presence of women in cannabis that empower us not only as leaders, but as consumers and patients,” indicating a collective goal to build an inclusive industry.

The Need for Support and Mentorship

Despite progress, a critical challenge remains: the scarcity of female leaders who can serve as mentors to emerging women in the field. As Dina Rollman, CEO of Strainbrain, pointed out, “That challenge is only amplified in the cannabis industry where there is a shortage of female CEOs to support and mentor each other.” She draws a parallel to the tech industry, highlighting a common struggle for women to ascend to leadership roles.

Rollman stresses the potential for career advancement in both cannabis and cannabis technology, particularly as advancements in artificial intelligence and technology reshape the landscape.

Legacy and Future Aspirations

The conversation around women in the cannabis industry also includes a strong emphasis on legacy and future opportunities. Cristy Aranguiz, CEO and co-founder of Cannabis & Glass, highlights the importance of celebrating the women who will shape the industry tomorrow: “Celebrate the women who will lead tomorrow, not just the women who have come before us.” Her perspective as a first-generation immigrant sheds light on the barriers many women and minorities face in the industry, yet she remains hopeful about creating equitable opportunities through advocacy and social equity programs.

Conclusion

As Women’s History Month begins, it is crucial to acknowledge the strides women have made in the cannabis industry while also recognizing the challenges that persist. The call for unity, mentorship, and support stands paramount as women continue to play an essential role in shaping the future of cannabis, striving towards a landscape where every woman has the opportunity to thrive.