On International Women’s Day, the cannabis industry is demonstrating the significant progress it has made towards gender inclusion and leadership diversity. This dynamic industry, known for its rapid growth and evolving landscape, has become a platform for women leaders to innovate, inspire and advocate for a more equitable space.
Influential women across the cannabis spectrum share their insights and experiences, highlighting the progress achieved and the challenges that persist. Their voices, critical in shaping the future of the industry, highlight the importance of female representation, empowerment and the ongoing efforts needed to ensure that women, especially women of color, are no longer underrepresented or overlooked.
As the industry continues to thrive, these leaders are calling for a collective push to refine hiring practices, improve retention, and amplify the voices of women in leadership positions, making it clear that the journey to gender parity in cannabis is far from finished.
Rosie Mattio, Founder and CEO of Mattio Communications
I feel very fortunate to have created space for women in communications and cannabis to learn, develop, and reach their full potential. When I look at many of our clients, I also see many inspiring cases where women have built thriving businesses from the ground up and then laid the foundation for other women to thrive too.
However, there is so much more that can be done to empower women in an industry where they, particularly women of color, are underrepresented and too often overlooked. While progress has been made in several areas, companies should continue to refine their hiring practices and evaluate their retention efforts to ensure they are not only hiring a diverse group of people, but also giving them the tools they need to grow. More broadly, as an industry and society, we must continue to amplify the voices of women leaders and normalize women in leadership positions.
Emily Paxhia, co-founder and CEO of Poseidon Investment Management
I love being a woman in the cannabis field, the thriving industry is fertile ground for people to manifest a path that may not be possible in other spaces.
We are still in a frontier moment and the pioneers are made up of a gritty and passionate mix of people who appreciate those who strive to lead into the future. Some of the greatest leaders I know in these industries are women, and most take their responsibility to engage other women very seriously. We have a real opportunity to continue to build this industry to be inclusive and optimized by a range of life experiences and perspectives.
Take note: Paxhia will be speaking at the upcoming Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference in Hollywood, Florida on April 16-17. Get your tickets now. Prices will rise soon. You can use code JAVIER20 for 20% off today.
Deborah Saneman, CEO of Würk
As one of the leading women in the cannabis industry, I still see a huge opportunity to redefine norms and pave the way for diversity and inclusivity. It’s about breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes and demonstrating strength. At Würk I am committed to empowering not only myself but also those around me, demonstrating that success in this field is not limited by gender but by dedication, innovation and resilience.
Phoebe DePree, CEO of Goddess Growers:
There has never been a better time for women to join the cannabis industry. Women make up more than half of cannabis users. This number is likely higher, as women make 80% of health and wellness purchasing decisions for their family. Additionally, they disproportionately care for their elderly parents. If a woman likes a product, she tells all her friends about it.
This consumer power is not to be missed, yet the cannabis industry is sorely lacking in female leadership. By participating in the cannabis industry early, women have the opportunity to challenge traditional gender norms and redefine social perceptions of the traditional cannabis consumer. They can also promote wellness advocacy. Women’s health is constantly put on the back burner – by joining the cannabis industry, we can prioritize the development of products specifically designed with our well-being in mind.
Last but not least, being part of the cannabis industry is personally rewarding – it provides a sense of purpose and passion in life! Run, don’t walk, to find your place in this special industry, poised for explosive growth over the next decade.
Patricia Rosi, Director of Marketing and Strategy at Acreage
With cannabis use among adult women reaching the highest levels ever recorded in the United States, it’s clear that we need greater female representation in the industry and it’s critical that we challenge historical barriers by continually advocating to inspire other women to embrace the community of cannabis. I’ve forged my path by building companies that support this mindset, and I’m incredibly proud to be part of an organization with more than half of the executive team made up of women.
Wendy Bronfein, co-founder and director of public policy at Curio Wellness
As a female leader in the cannabis industry, I have witnessed the profound impact we can have. In 2024, women represent 39% of cannabis executives, up from 23% previously.
In an increasingly dynamic industry, the opportunities for women to thrive are endless, from retail to cultivation, product development, marketing and more. Being part of this growing industry means being part of something rapidly evolving, where your career can take off at an accelerated pace. Working in the cannabis industry isn’t just about seizing opportunities; it’s about shaping the future of an industry that is not only growing, but growing rapidly.
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