Asians in Cannabis to Watch

Why are you passionate about cannabis (and/or hemp)?
Geraldine: I'm passionate about cannabis because of its healing power and connective benefits. It's a plant-powered tool that gives me clarity and deep consciousness. It's a bridge to building community, connecting me to others more intimately and intentionally, too. Plus, it helps me move my body in ways that make me feel free and tapped in on the dance floor...This girl loves to dance at the end of the day, so that's why we honor this plant all day, everyday.

What do you love about the cannabis industry/community? What do you hope to see change/improve?
Geraldine: Like a true child of immigrants, I love the cannabis industry because of the limitless opportunity to build and create something from the ground up. I love the community because it's driven by a lot of women too. Despite the uphill climb, I'm surrounded by a diverse group of powerhouse women who are willing to communicate through the challenges, stand in solidarity in our fight, and advocate for each other when we need it most. It is far from rainbows and gold, but I've learned to celebrate the small wins and stay rooted in my values. On the same note, I think what I want to see more of is brands/businesses/people stand up for something. I don't expect every brand to have the same goals or mission that I do, but I do expect people who talk that talk to also show (tf) up. 

What does being an Asian in Cannabis mean to you? What do you hope people understand about that?
Geraldine: Being an Asian in Cannabis means we are here to build something meaningful and long-lasting. We bring a level of tenacity and perseverance to this industry that stems from our cultures. When I look at my peers who have become both friends and family, I am proud to be among them. We are all real people putting in real time to make a real difference; be it with our brands, products, and communities. Asians in Cannabis are out here doing the most. I'm empowered by us and want to build more opportunity for us.

Anything in the works? Anything you want our audience to know about? 
Geraldine: My live stream series, "Amplify Your Chill," will be released in podcast format soon, so I'm really excited about that. The first season is dedicated to NYC and the creatives I love and admire there. Given everything that is happening, its release has become more meaningful to me. In a time of no chill, I want that body of work to celebrate and honor the resilience and heart of NYC--its people. I also have ongoing collaborations happening, such as the virtual smoke break Sesh-Ins with Limone Creative and more IG Live Stream conversations on the way with brands in the streetwear world under the global distributor Selfhood. Stay tuned for more via @artandtimesofchill.

What do you love about the cannabis industry/community? What do you hope to see change/improve?
Lulu: This industry is all about relationships and human connection. I am especially grateful for the community of magical women in cannabis that I’ve had a chance to connect and build with. These are the rebel minded women who are all about getting things done, not taking any shit, and lifting up others along the way. There are a lot of challenges in the industry that need creative problem solving, so I hope to see more women in STEM joining the industry to offer different perspectives for creative and innovative solutions. 

What does being an Asian in Cannabis mean to you? What do you hope people understand about that?
Lulu: Even though some of the earliest evidence of cannabis has been found in ancient Chinese tombs, to many Chinese, the memory of a culture destroyed by the opioid epidemic during the turn of the century still remains. Because of this historical impact, many Chinese place cannabis in the same category as opium. I hope this is an opportunity for me to help de-stigmatize and educate my Chinese community about the plant. I would love to see cannabis become part of Chinese herbal medicine again.

Anything in the works? Anything you want our audience to know about?
Lulu: I host a quarterly speaker series in NYC called On the Revel, think Cannabis "Ted-Talks," showcasing companies that we think are setting the gold standard within the cannabis industry and who share the same ethos that our industry can be inclusive, diverse, and have opportunities for all. We strive to be mindful and inclusive, so we intentionally feature women and professionals of color on our stage which mirrors the beautiful and diverse cross-section of the audience that we attract in NY. Because of COVID, we have now moved things online and launched a new weekly series called Dope People, featuring the amazing people that we’ve met along the cannabis industry journey. Please join us weekly on Fridays at 1pm ET, www.ontherevel.com.

Why are you passionate about cannabis (and/or hemp)?
Lily: Since I was a kid I have been going to doctors for everything from asthma to hyperthyroidism. While the medical industry saved my life multiple times pharmaceutical pills failed me time and time again causing fainting spells to seizures. Cannabis was always there without the negative side effects. I went from enjoying cannabis recreationally to finding that it helped me with my lack of appetite and food intolerances, night terrors, insomnia, and crippling anxiety. Cannabis gave me the passion to want to share my story with others. 

What do you love about the cannabis industry/community? What do you hope to see change/improve?
Lily: I love the cannabis community! No matter how different we all are we can all connect on the fact that we love this plant. I have made so many friends through the community and even found my passion through it. There are so many things I hope to see improve. For starters, I would love to see the overall decriminalization and legalization throughout the country and eventually globally! Additionally, it is very difficult to start a cannabis business. There are constant obstacles for those who don't have many resources to get started.  Not only would I love to see the racism end but for the acceptance especially for medical reasons. I along with many others worry about traveling to illegal states and not having access to our medicine.

What does being an Asian in Cannabis mean to you? What do you hope people understand about that?
Lily: To me, it is about empowering other Asians and minorities. I want to break the stigmas we face not only as stoners but also as Asians. Being South Asian we are always scrutinized for what we do. Especially if it is out of the norm. Indian women smoking is looked down upon even though cannabis has been a part of our culture for centuries. I hope to inspire others to not let these stigmas define them and to be a part of the change. 

Anything in the works? Anything you want our audience to know about? 
Lily: Yes! After selling out, we are restocking on our Silipuffs and in the works of designing new joint holders made with gem stones! We can't wait to launch those very soon! 

Why are you passionate about cannabis (and/or hemp)?
Courtney: It's the intersection of my laughable intolerance for alcohol and my passion for public health, which is at the core of AMNESIA — to ensure people have healthy relationships with cannabis & hemp by challenging stigmas through education and community; we can empower people to make educated decisions about how cannabis is not only a healthy part of their lives, but can create health, emotionally, mentally and physically.

What do you love about the cannabis industry/community? What do you hope to see change/improve?
Courtney: The collaborative community is my favorite part of the industry! The folks who've chosen to face the challenges in the industry are passionate about creating positive change and I feel honored to be a part of a community that constantly inspires me. That being said, I'd love to see more collaboration and meaningful dialogue between the community/culture and the traditional capital/institutions now in the space. 

What does being an Asian in Cannabis mean to you? What do you hope people understand about that?
Courtney: Being Asian in Cannabis isn't different from what it means to me to be Asian American. It means embracing my duality as a positive and that this story is valid, and worth hearing. What is great about cannabis is that it reminds us of the important conversations we haven't grappled with as a society at large... the impact on our culture from colonialism, what does it mean to be Asian American aka the model minority, and how we are simultaneously culturally American AND Asian.

Anything in the works? Anything you want our audience to know about?
Courtney: I'm excited that our self-service influencer marketing platform is launching in the next month which will help us change the cannabis narrative at scale. We're also in stealth mode to launch a product in the next couple of months that will empower content creators to remain safe while creating cannabis culture. We're also excited to launch our next GxG content series soon - stay tuned!

Why are you passionate about cannabis (and/or hemp)?
Christine: Cannabis helps me really access the best version of myself, whether it's a more present me, a more relaxed me, or a more focused me. It's a near-magical plant that really sets my intentions in motion, and for that I'm so grateful to it and those who grow it and make it accessible. 

What do you love about the cannabis industry/community? What do you hope to see change/improve?
Christine: The cannabis industry is more collaborative than any other industry I've ever worked in. Nobody feels out of reach, and it really does feel like a community rooted in a common purpose that's bigger than just making money. We create products for our customers, yes. But we also take the time to create experiences for each other, and to share a craft that's as intimate as cannabis makes for really unique relationships. I do think that there's a perception of the industry that it's a way to make a quick buck, and I wish that sentiment would change. There might be some avenues to do that, sure, but it's a sentiment that can be destructive for the entire industry. 

What does being an Asian in Cannabis mean to you? What do you hope people understand about that?
Christine: The earliest recorded uses of cannabis come from Asia. To be honest, cannabis to me is just an extension of the holistic, plant based wellness that I learned from my upbringing. It's a practice I bring into my repertoire and foundation that I've been growing my entire life. I think Asians are often seen as the ethnic group with the least amount of cannabis experience, and I'm interested in absolutely smashing that stereotype and serving up some of the best goods we can. 

Anything in the works? Anything you want our audience to know about? 
Christine: We actually just reformulated our CBD dominant cannabis infused honey to be a 10:1 CBD to THC ratio, whereas before it had nearly none (despite also being full spectrum). Customers are more and more asking for more diverse cannabinoid profiles and we're happy to oblige. We're rolling out some updated packaging with it too, and can't wait to hear what everyone thinks! 

Why are you passionate about cannabis (and/or hemp)? 
Felicity: Cannabis has many facets; it can be social, it can be for wellness and it can be medicinal from someone suffering something truly debilitating. One single plant can be so dynamic, has so many incredible smells, tastes, and ways of consuming. I love how the more you learn, the more magical the plan becomes and we are all so blessed to be a part of its movement. 

What do you love about the cannabis industry/community? What do you hope to see change/improve?
Felicity: After floating around for most of my life, I found my family in the cannabis industry. Never before have I found a group of people more creative, hard working and talented. There's a real soul in the cannabis community that I haven't felt connected to elsewhere. Most people that are in the community have suffered through hardship to become who they are today. It's what makes each of us so unique and connected. However, I want to remind our community that, just because we have suffered through hardship, we cannot only compare ourselves to our industry standard. We have to set ourselves to an even higher standard in order to bring the cannabis industry forward as an entire whole. 

What does being an Asian in Cannabis mean to you? What do you hope people understand about that? 
Felicity: Potli makes culturally Asian, California grown ingredients infused with cannabis to normalize the conversation around cannabis! Growing up in a Chinese household, I never had the benefit of being properly educated in Cannabis. And I believe many kids growing up in first or second generation immigrant families can relate to having to rely on themselves to figure most things out for themselves, not just cannabis. I had the privilege of growing up in the food industry, where my parents ran a small family business manufacturing Chinese sauces and spices. To this day, each one of Potli Raw Honey is harvested from my parent's backyard! Having the fortune to sell Potli Sriracha and Honey, products where we can tell the origin story to end on the supply chain is quite an incredible feeling. I really believe that people can feel the passion that we have for our products because it really hits home for the Asian Americans who grew up like us.

Anything in the works? Anything you want our audience to know about?
Felicity: Absolutely! We're in the middle of quarantine so we've discounted our Olive Oil to $30 for added accessibility. We've also launched a buy one give one campaign to benefit San Francisco's food runner's program. We are so lucky to be able to work everyday on a business we are so passionate about and we want to give back to those at the frontlines or those who have lost their food security. We've also started selling our merchandise, Potli Provisions, an assortment of home goods and shirts. We hope you enjoy!

Why are you passionate about cannabis (and/or hemp)?   
Haejin: Cannabis has been a huge part of my life and identity for the last 20 years. It has not only made me a better, more grounded, and balanced person, but it's also helped me connect with so many people in ways I wouldn't have through any other means. The countless conversations, gatherings and friendships it has sparked, there's something truly special about how this plant brings people together. It's physically, emotionally, and spiritually medicinal and I've seen it transform so many people's lives for the good. I believe, nah, I know for a fact, this world would be a better place if more people would smoke weed and chill. 

What do you love about the cannabis industry/community? What do you hope to see change/improve?
Haejin: I love how we're at a place in history where we have the power and influence to shape and set the tone;  We're at the forefront of redefining what the industry and weed culture (in general) looks like through the new lens of recreational legalization. We're building the kind of community and brands within the industry we wanna stand by, are proud of, without the limitations from fear of criminalization or even past stigmas holding us back. Witnessing that transformation (especially as a feminist, when bro-weed culture was dominating everything back then) is a breathe of fresh air. It's like weed came out of the closet and is embracing the contemporary world not just through design and branding, but ideals. I hope to see a shift in the "hype for the sake of hype" mentality... there's just something that really turns me off about competitive-weed-shaming or any sort of negative flex, because it creates an anti-inclusive climate. And even though I take pride in knowing my shit and being able to hang with even the nerdiest weed cannassuers and heavy-hitters, we have to realize there's a whole demographic of people who are new to cannabis. As veterans, as thought leaders in the space, as someone within my community whom many look up to with their questions and concerns... it's our job to make it more approachable; To provide education so we don't turn anyone off from what the true potential of this plant can actually do to help someone. It's not only good for the culture but it's also good for business. There's a huge feminist movement within the cannabis industry that I've been super proud of and personally advocating for. Any sort of toxic masculinity, bro-weed culture just needs to go. I'm not a fan of the objectification of women as a strategy to convert sexual currency into sales. All I want is for my fellow Queens to stay woke within the narratives we are creating and contributing to for that bigger picture. Don't get me wrong, it's your body and your choice, I've always been pro "be you, do you." If you are genuinely embracing and honoring yourself through sexuality or whatever else truly empowers you, more power to you. We need more real ass women setting a real ass example. But there's a difference between owning your power and strength, and taking a photo with a giant bag of weed in between your legs with zero message, zero "true to yourself" vibes, and/or playing into a script written by fuck boys running the game. Rewrite the game; Be a BOSS not a prop.

What does being an Asian in Cannabis mean to you? What do you hope people understand about that?
Haejin: It means that I've been through some shit to get here: to be an ally, a cannabis chef, and a thought leader within an industry I grew up being shamed, discredited and disowned for. I had to overcome so many of my own internal dichotomies being a first generation Korean-American and growing up in a very christian, very patriarchal household. I chose to be loud and proud (even though my upbringing wanted me to be submissive and obedient); I chose me. Saying 'yes' back then to something that is now and obviously has been a huge part of who I am, was an act of rebellion and defiance. I've been through some shit to be here, to be respected for it now, which means I deserve to be here. My mom still gives me a hard time for it, but there's nothing and no one (at this point) that can take me off course cuz cannabis is and most definitely was meant to be part of my journey. I hope one day I'll be able to truly show my mom the real work I'm doing even tho it doesn't come with a diploma on the wall, or piece of mind. I know she'll never fully be proud of what I do, but I'm doing my best to break that "stoner" stigma on the daily, for her, and for anyone else who doubts how capable I am at thriving while high. 

Anything in the works? Anything you want our audience to know about? 
Haejin: Always. Figuring out and navigating what my hustle looks like on the day to day. Times are extra hard for the creatives, for people who march to their own beat, for those of us who continue creating culture and building community, regardless of capital. Can't stop, wont stop. You know where to find me. I'm not really into plugging my shit. I know I should do it more tho. But this interview in itself, already gave me the mic. What I do wanna plug: EVERYONE ELSE, my BIG BAD COMMUNITY. I see you: hustling with your heart, showing up, giving more than anything you expect in return, refusing to feel sorry for yourself, pivoting, becoming more savage in these times and backing that up with a work ethic to match. We need to keep those flames going. We need to use those flames to light as many flames as we can. Keep on keeping on, no matter what. 

Why are you passionate about cannabis (and/or hemp)?
Haley: It's hard not to be passionate about something that's played such a big role in my life. From the early days, when we smoked out of gatorade bottles – to now, where it's helped shape who I am as a creative. I'll always be an advocate – as someone with a hereditary motor and sensory neuropathy, I've experienced firsthand what cannabis can do for those of us in need.

What do you love about the cannabis industry/community? What do you hope to see change/improve?
Haley: This community is truly like no other – it celebrates our differences and brings people together in a way that is hard to capture. It's like meeting a total stranger, but somehow still feeling like you've reunited with an old friend. The culture has exploded, but there's still so much growth that needs to happen in order to break down the sigma – and that starts with those in places of privilege speaking up for those who can't. 

What does being an Asian in Cannabis mean to you? What do you hope people understand about that?
Haley: Being an Asian in Cannabis can be a double edged sword. On one side it's still highly criminalized in most Asian countries, so acceptance can be really difficult for older generations. On the other, it means we've been given an opportunity as people of color coming from a place of privilege. It means we have the ability to be loud for those who can't, which is an incredibly empowering thing.

Why are you passionate about cannabis (and/or hemp)?
Nomi: I like the feeling that I get from cannabis. It’s not only about getting high, it’s about finding that good feeling and comforting your body with this plant. Discovering that changed my whole life. So I have decided to help and advocate others to explore the flower power through self-care rituals. 

What do you love about the cannabis industry/community? What do you hope to see change/improve?
Nomi: Cannabis is one of the few industries that has been changed with the hard work of women. Since I have become more passionate about working with cannabis, I have met so many wonderful women. Before legalization, the cannabis industry was very masculine and there was not a single product made for women. Without women, there wouldn’t be a luxury market in the cannabis industry. Cannabis became luxury when women discovered it. Through cannabis, I have found my true friends. Cannabis also gave me a chance to have my own business and be the boss lady I have always wanted to be. 

What does being an Asian in Cannabis mean to you? What do you hope people understand about that?
Nomi: I was born in Central Asia and my family still lives there. Cannabis culture is one thing that’s lost in the rich Asian history and hasn’t had a proper chance to come back. That’s why I always keep my business side related to cannabis and my daily lifestyle that includes cannabis a secret from my family and friends who live overseas. Cannabis and drugs are taboo in Asian countries, so we had very little knowledge about it. Therefore, I think it’s a privilege that I get to experience and use cannabis. I’m part of the generation who has explored this plant. I do think it’s my duty to promote and educate my other Asian friends and family about cannabis with correct information and knowledge. Also, Asians come from backgrounds that strictly stigmatize cannabis, so we always have extra steps in order to use or work with cannabis. Not everyone around us would understand or be pleasant about it, so we always have to explain our work and lifestyle to our community. There is a lot of work that needs to be done to get our community to understand and be open to it. We are making history.

Anything in the works? Anything you want our audience to know about?
Nomi: Nomsternailz is a cannabis friendly mobile nail salon that comes to your desired location and events /gatherings. Before I became a nail artist, I was that one annoying customer who used to bring my strong weed smell to the spa appointment. Regular Asian nail salon ladies weren’t taking me as a regular client or just never bonded with me. After becoming an esthetician, I wanted my work to stand out and bring new upscale and luxury service. Smoking cannabis gives you that relaxing/good feeling and going to spa gives you same feeling, so I had to connect those dots to bring regular spa appointment to the next level. Also, I wanted to perform my work in the most comfortable place for my clients and everyone’s most comfortable spot is their homes. When I worked as a runway model in NYC, most of the fashion show after parties hosted popular nail artists for manicures sessions at the party. Getting your nails done and getting fly at the events and gatherings can be done, so I decided to bring that vibe with my company. Nomsternailz isn’t only about nail art, it’s about feeling good with self-care. Also, we don’t offer artificial nails, because our main goal is to make feel people good with what they have using elevated skills and new spa technologies/products. If you take care of anything, nothing is ugly. Invite us to your events to add upscale self-care services to make people feel good. SELF-CARE IS SEXY!  

Why are you passionate about cannabis (and/or hemp)? 
Monica: Cannabis has helped me in more ways than I expected. I've used the plant to heal myself physically, mentally, and creatively. By being open about my experience with cannabis, many doors have opened for me in my career and relationships, including the one with my parents. Through Sous Weed, I learned that cannabis is a healing herb that belongs in the kitchen pantry and in your medicine cabinet. 

What does being an Asian in Cannabis mean to you? What do you hope people understand about that?
Monica: The origins of cannabis trace back 28 million years ago on the eastern Tibetan Plateau. Over 2,500 years ago, the Chinese used it for medicinal, spiritual, and recreational purposes. As Asians, it's important to know that our cannabis history is rich and there's still much to uncover. We belong in the cannabis space, 100%, and we should be proud! By coming out and correcting the narrative on cannabis use, we can help destigmatize and demystify within our AAPI communities.

Why are you passionate about cannabis (and/or hemp)?
Eunice: Discovering cannabis made a huge impact on my life and my wellness. I was able to treat my depression and anxiety naturally, without a single prescription med and I am so thankful for that, especially in the world we live in today. I am happier and healthier today because of it. By experiencing the healing powers of the plant first hand, I am a true believer that the right education and guidance can help the many others, who don’t understand cannabis, find wellness naturally as well.

What do you love about the cannabis industry/community? What do you hope to see change/improve?
Eunice: I love how collaborative and supportive it is. With the industry growing and developing so rapidly, I hope that we will be able to maintain the strong bonds we have with each other for positive change, such as better representation, new and lasting opportunities, and a healthy industry that sticks around for a very long time!

What does being an Asian in Cannabis mean to you? What do you hope people understand about that?
Eunice: To me, it means setting the example and changing the narrative from the inside out. We represent only a tiny percentage of the players in the industry, but I believe our tenacity and novel thinking will make an impact and inspire others to join the movement. Together, we have the privilege of shedding the stigma around cannabis in the Asian community, where it is still very strongly rooted.  What an exciting and rewarding challenge.

Anything in the works? Anything you want our audience to know about? 
Eunice: I’m so excited to announce that HiVi is launching this month. It may just be phase 1, but I’m so proud of the energy we put into establishing our three pillars of education, community, and discovery. Our facts are verified, our community’s bond is tough, and our curation of cannabis brands and products is so inclusive. We thrive in High Vibration, so that we can help others do the same!

What do you love about the cannabis industry/community? What do you hope to see change/improve?
Lauren: Once you separate out those who are here purely for the coin, there is a common factor amongst most working in and around the cannabis industry. A shared hint of boldness, curiosity, and being fed up with broken systems. Most of us are here, yes, because we enjoy weed, but also because we believe in building something better. I love the roll-up-your-sleeves culture within this community, and I think the reason people stay in it — despite all its challenges — is the inspiring potential for more ethical, sustainable ways of taking care of ourselves and of doing business. That addictive sense of "we're all in this together, let's do this" as you face each new obstacle. 

What does being an Asian in Cannabis mean to you? What do you hope people understand about that?
Lauren: I think, in a lot of ways, being open about enjoying weed is just a metaphor for being yourself. By telling stories from an Asian American perspective, I hope to help other Asian faces and voices to feel seen and be emboldened to be themselves — to go for the career they want but don't think they 'belong' there; to own and excel in the pursuits that make you happy. Even as a 5th generation half-Japanese woman, I was raised with a sense of it being "less ok" for women to partake and close to career-ending if any cannabis-related content with my name on it existed. By staying true to myself and what made me happy and healthy, I not only found work faster than if I'd waited for other writing opportunities, but I proved something to myself and my family about cannabis. That my use didn't take away from my intellect or capacity to excel at work or in life in general.
 
Anything in the works? Anything you want our audience to know about?
Lauren: The new home recording set-up involves a few more cats that usual, but I'm happy to say the Broccoli Talk podcast continues in quarantine. You can tune in for casual weed chats, interviews and confessionals with me and my co-host Mennlay (@mennlay) every other Tuesday. Pro Tips: 1. First timers should start with "Weed Harvest Confessions," but "Teenage Nostalgia" is as good an intro as any. 2. Skincare nerds will love "Does CBD Skincare Really Work?," an interview with Charlotte Palermino of Nice Paper and Dieux.  3. "Weed, Love & Relationships" was the most fun to record, and it shows. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and most listening apps. I'm extra excited about an upcoming addition to the Broccoli Magazine universe: THE BROCCOLI REPORT.  A weekly collection of cannabis news and analysis for creative cannabis entrepreneurs, including updates on emerging trends, crackdowns, and shake-ups, plus shoutouts to up-and-comers, under-the-radar happenings, and other opportunities you need to know, written by yours truly. Follow me and @broccolimagazine for more details on the launch of Broccoli Report and more.

Why are you passionate about cannabis (and/or hemp)?
Mimi: My interest in cannabis began when I discovered how it could help me personally. The more I learned about how the power of the plan can positively impact people’s lives, the more passionate I became about it and about advocating for it. For me, cannabis has been a game-changer for helping me sleep or staying calm during the day; but for someone else, they might use it for pain management or social lubrication. What other thing in this world has the potential to bring so much positivity in so many different ways? Like all relationships, everybody’s relationship with cannabis is intensely individual and very diverse. And I think that is really neat!

What do you love about the cannabis industry/community? What do you hope to see change/improve?
Mimi: As an entrepreneur, I love the fact that the legal cannabis industry is so dynamic and fast-paced. It feels like I’m playing in a sandbox that keeps getting bigger, and I keep getting new toys; it’s truly a once in a lifetime opportunity. With Superette, we can continuously push the boundaries for customer experience and design in cannabis.
What do I hope to see improve? A lot, but top of mind is substantially more research and acceptance of cannabis by the medical community.

What does being an Asian in Cannabis mean to you? What do you hope people understand about that?
Mimi: I do not think of myself as unique, but being both female and a visible minority in cannabis often feels like I am under a bit of a spotlight or some sort of distorted pedestal. It’s a little weird and a lot of personal pressure. I find myself questioning whether I am part of conversations purely because of my gender and race, as opposed to my quality of work and thought. However, I try not to worry about it too much and recognize that if people are listening, I can leverage this as an opportunity to put ideas forward to create impactful change. I know that I can lead by example and maybe even inspire other females and/or Asians to feel empowered to stand for what they believe in and follow their gut.

Anything in the works? Anything you want our audience to know about? 
Mimi: Superette is only getting started. Look out for more stores (in Canada and hopefully in the US soon), new apparel and lifestyle goods, cannabis products under our brand, and fun collabs with some of our friends across North America – tons of cool things up our sleeve!

What do you love about the cannabis industry/community? What do you hope to see change/improve?
Ginny: I am grateful for the people and spirit we have for each other in our community. This plant has forged so many amazing relationships in my life and still continue to. I hope we all continue to build and grow together.  

What does being an Asian in Cannabis mean to you? What do you hope people understand about that?
Ginny: Being Asian and a single mother that openly uses cannabis, already has a lot of heads turning from the older generation. This is why I tell my stories because stories help to start conversations and break down the stigmas of cannabis we have in our own community.

Anything in the works? Anything you want our audience to know about?
Ginny: I have a few things in the works! With the experience I have acquired co-founding Elevate Herbs, I am currently consulting in digital marketing & events. I just accepted a new position with Amnesia Media, as the influencer marketing manager. Also be on the lookout for Grass x Grass! As head of community and co-founder, we have some amazing new things coming up!

Why are you passionate about cannabis (and/or hemp)?
JTran: I’m born and raised in Oakland. I see this industry through a unique lens. A generation of children grew up without fathers due to the drug wars. And as the cannabis industry was growing, it didn't feel reflective of the community that originally built it. So I'm here to change that. As the industry became more socially acceptable it became undeniably more white. That made absolutely no sense to me. And the uniqueness of the industry gives me an opportunity to do something about it as opposed to many other industries 

What do you love about the cannabis industry/community? What do you hope to see change/improve?
JTran: I love the hustlers. You can't be in cannabis if you aren't a hustler. And some how these hustlers all found each other and created a dope ass family. Cannabis is vast and we are really just at the beginning of understanding some of its benefits. I hope that with stigmas changing we will be able to fund proper in-depth research. I'm hope that companies will be more responsible with their messaging and stop marketing random cannabis as a cure for all. *Rolls eyes* 

What does being an Asian in Cannabis mean to you? What do you hope people understand about that?
JTran: It means everything. I want people to see people like me when they talk about cannabis. That I am them or I could be their daughter or sister. I believe whole heartedly that that's how we break down stigmas in our communities. Personally being an Asian in cannabis has changed my family and that means the world. My mother struggles with chronic insomnia and was taking some very intense medication for years. Although initially adverse and terrified, seeing me thrive in this industry has given her the confidence to start trying cannabis products. And that's really all it is for me. I can give a fuck if EVERYONE consumes, but for those that truly need it, I hope they find the confidence and support to start looking into cannabis. 

Anything in the works? Anything you want our audience to know about?
JTran: Sundae School has finally launched cannabis. And we want to do it right. I work with my best friends with another set of best friends. The four of us are hustling and fighting everyday. Sundae School is a design studio at it's core so there's multiple things to look forward to. Catch our weekly fashion drops on sundae.school. And please support our small cannabis brand now avail all over California. We want you feedback and we need your support. Go buy my weed.