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What’s the biggest challenge facing the cannabis industry right now, and how are you and/or your company addressing it?
The biggest challenge facing the cannabis industry right now is trust, inclusion, and breaking the stigma.
We are addressing this through our rolling paper brand, Diesel J’s, and our community events like Smokin’ On The Runway. Through Diesel J’s, we host monthly artist showcases and DJ listening parties, creating consistency and meeting customers in person. Through Smokin’ On The Runway, we combine fashion, art, cannabis, and education, helping break the stigma around cannabis and the media while changing the narrative on where cannabis can be shown and how it is introduced to curious consumers.
Where do you see the most exciting opportunity for growth and innovation in cannabis?
I’m most excited to see the new products and events that are being created. You should be able to enjoy a joint or edible the same way you enjoy a beer or glass of wine. These new products and events are helping introduce the industry to new individuals, which is how it will grow through mass adoption.
I’ve seen THC popcorn, our Diesel J’s 4-in-1 rolling papers, the Smokin’ On The Runway Cannabis Fashion Show, and more.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to someone looking to break into the cannabis industry?
I would recommend learning about the industry by going to local events and networking, and figuring out where you want to be involved, whether that’s starting a company or working for someone else as you learn more. I think that will always be the best option, as you can learn from someone else while also having an income.
What is the most important thing you have learned from your experiences in the cannabis industry?
The most important thing I’ve learned is the value of collaborating with individuals and businesses that share similar values. Being part of this community has opened the door to meaningful partnerships, whether that is working with local artists on limited-edition releases in Minneapolis or teaming up with organizations like NECANN on limited-run paper collaborations and white-label opportunities. It is a growing industry with a long way to go, and success really comes down to having a strong team, building solid relationships, staying consistent, and keeping the faith. For me, it is all connected. I want to build culture, foster relationships, and create something people can genuinely be a part of, even if it means pursuing ideas that challenge what is familiar.
The industry is still new, and with continued innovation and new creatives entering the space, it’s important to keep adapting and refining how things are done.
What do you want your legacy to be as it relates to the cannabis industry?
I want my legacy to be a creative and successful African lifestyle cannabis brand, growing our fashion show and Diesel J’s to be available around the world. Creating the cannabis cultural movement as legalization continues to grow nationally and internationally.