FOUNDER OF RNB YOGA

Lauren Spearman is a certified yoga teacher with a mission to promote inclusivity in the yoga community. She founded R&B Yoga® in 2016, a unique and inclusive yoga experience that combines R&B music with beginner-friendly techniques. R&B Yoga has since collaborated with Adidas and Savage X Fenty and has been featured in the LA Times and NBC California Live.

Lauren's passion for wellness extends beyond the studio as she teaches yoga therapy to patients at Trinity Health & Wellness and pursues her studies in the yoga therapy program at Loyola Marymount University

CMO & CO-FOUNDER OF EVENTHI AND CO-FOUNDER OF BLUNTBRUNCH

Adelia is a trailblazing Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) with over a decade of experience spanning corporate, consumer electronics, and the cannabis sectors. As the CMO of EventHi, a premier online ticketing platform for cannabis events, she has been instrumental in advancing the company’s vision and brand. Her leadership and innovation earned her the 2023 Leadership Impact Award from ICBWA.

A passionate advocate for community building and education, Adelia co-founded Blunt Brunch, a series of events focused on empowering women in the cannabis industry. Her commitment extends to advising the International Cannabis Business Women’s Association and Lift Experiences & Events, and serving as a board member of This is Jane Project.

Adelia’s dedication to mentorship and thought leadership continues to inspire women and entrepreneurs navigating the evolving cannabis landscape. Through her work, she champions the growth, success, and inclusivity of the cannabis community.

CO-FOUNDER OF SYNERGY STUDIOS AND PRIME HARVEST INC, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR RYAN’S LAW FOUNDATION

JM Balbuena is an accomplished author, filmmaker, and entrepreneur known for her leadership in the cannabis industry. As the founder of Synergy, a multimedia organization and advocacy lifestyle brand, she uses media to drive social change.

Balbuena is a Co-founder of Prime Harvest Inc., a tech-retail focused cannabis company where she currently serves as Chief Marketing Officer. She is the executive director of the Ryan’s Law Foundation, a non-profit organization advocating for compassionate cannabis access for terminally ill patients.

JM has worked internationally on advocacy, media, and education projects with cannabis organizations in Lebanon, Colombia, Mexico, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic. Her literary works include the bestselling book, The Successful Canna-Preneur, and her most recent published work, Green Renaissance.

In 2024, she directed and produced the award-winning documentary Roll Up for Equity, which highlights San Diego’s challenges in implementing a social equity program within its legal cannabis sector. A proud Afro-Latina and U.S. Navy veteran, JM resides in Southern California, continuing to champion cannabis reform globally.

JOVANA RAMIREZ, FOUNDER OF PRETTY HIGH CLUB

Jovana is the visionary force & founder behind PrettyHighClub, a groundbreaking movement and platform established in 2020 that is dedicated to empowering and uniting women within the cannabis industry. This pioneering initiative represents a significant milestone as the first of its kind in Florida. The impactful efforts of PrettyHighClub have earned prestigious recognition, notably receiving the 2023 award for Best Women's Cannabis Organization in Florida from the NORML organization.

Ramirez relocated from Miami to California to explore her interest in cannabis cultivation. Following the dissolution of a partnership, she was inspired to make her own mark in the industry. She returned home to launch an edible brand called LitPops, which gained local acclaim in the South Florida cannabis market in 2018. Recognizing the imperative of enhancing female empowerment in the predominantly male-dominated industry, Ramirez conceived an exclusive brand tailored for women, thus giving rise to PrettyHighClub. 

Distinguished for its specialized events catering to women in the cannabis sector, PrettyHighClub has positioned Miami as a prominent hub for women within the industry. Ramirez remains steadfast in her commitment to bringing her distinctive vision to the industry, with a continued aspiration to pave the way for women in the field and contribute to the growth of this emerging market.

FOUNDER OF MEDICATED BARBIES & CO-FOUNDER OF KUSHSTOCK

Sajira is the powerhouse behind MedicatedBarbies and Kushstock. At just 30 years old, she is a driving force in the cannabis industry, working nationwide to help shape laws that allow cannabis events with legal sales.

Born to Mexican immigrant parents, Sajira is a proud first-generation American, deeply committed to her roots and a passionate advocate for Latin rights and immigration reform.

Since the medical era of cannabis, she has played a pivotal role in building and supporting renowned cannabis brands. Her dedication to shaping the future of women and events in cannabis is unwavering, and her leadership continues to inspire within both the cannabis and Latin communities. Sajira’s work and influence have earned her recognition on the cover of prominent media outlets, including LA Weekly.

DIRECTOR OF SALES AT NATURA LIFE + SCIENCE (SLUGGERS HIT & LOLA HOLISTICS)

Kendra is a seasoned sales leader with over 17 years of experience in the cannabis, real estate and action sports industries. She excels at driving revenue growth, exceeding sales goals, and leading successful sales, marketing, and product development teams. Known for her strategic thinking and data-driven approach, Kendra thrives in highly regulated environments.

As Director of Sales at Natura, Kendra has led her team to over 215% revenue growth and secured more than 200 new doors in less than 10 months. She develops go-to-market strategies, manages key accounts, and fosters retail collaborations. Previously, as Vice President of Sales at Cherry World, she successfully launched the brand into the CA recreational cannabis market.

At Old Pal, Kendra advanced from Territory Manager to Vice President of Sales, leading a team to generate over $20M in annual revenue. Her leadership was key in implementing cost-saving strategies and expanding the customer base. Her early career at C4 Distro and A-Team Agency earned her multiple Sales Rep of the Year awards.

Kendra's passion for cannabis began with her paralyzed, cancer-surviving sister who found relief from nerve pain in cannabis. Together, they grew cannabis and created coconut oil supplements for a friend with stage 4 breast cancer. This personal experience fuels her dedication to the industry.

A SoCal native and mother of two young girls, Kendra is committed to breaking glass ceilings and serving as a role model in a male-dominated industry. Featured on podcasts like CED Connects, High Rise, and Elevate Your Grind, she is an influential voice in the cannabis sector.

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR AT DUTCHIE

Kimmie serves as the Regional Sales Director for California at Dutchie, where she oversees the go-to-market strategy, manages the state’s sales team, and collaborates with cross-functional partners to drive growth and deliver exceptional service to customers. Since

joining Dutchie nearly four years ago, Rodriguez has risen through the ranks, holding multiple leadership positions, including Team Lead, Manager, and Senior Manager of Business Development. Her leadership and experience have been instrumental in solidifying Dutchie’s position as the premier technology provider for cannabis retailers in California.

Based in Los Angeles, Rodriguez brings a deep understanding of the cannabis industry and the market dynamics of the region. Before her tenure at Dutchie, she served as a Business Development Manager at LGE Design Build and held sales positions with the Phoenix Suns.

Rodriguez is passionate about driving growth, fostering customer relationships, and championing innovative solutions to help cannabis businesses thrive in the ever-evolving California market.

SALES DIRECTOR AT ETHER COLLECTIVE 

Alyssa is a seasoned cannabis professional with over a decade of experience. A native of San Diego, CA, her journey began at 18 when she turned to cannabis to cope with her father's death. This early encounter sparked her passion for the plant, which deepened during her studies at the University of California, Santa Cruz, and California State University, Bakersfield, where she focused on History and Psychology.

Inspired by her uncle's Parkinson’s diagnosis, Alyssa researched cannabis as an alternative medicine and became a medical patient in 2013 to manage her anxiety and chronic pain.

This personal connection motivated her to delve into research on the effectiveness of cannabis as an alternative medicine for Parkinson's disease and to Assess the attitudes of adults toward cannabis. Her industry career took off at Auntie Dolores Edibles, where she gained valuable experience in sales and distribution.

In 2015, while balancing her studies while working in the industry, she gained invaluable experience in the medical cannabis space. It was here she learned the importance of a holistic approach to healing. Through her work, she discovered the powerful synergy between cannabis and yoga, which helped her heal both physically and spiritually. In the same year, she further expanded her skills by becoming a reiki master, which deepened her understanding of energy healing and the connection between cannabis and spirituality. This exploration led her to start her own business, Sacred Hale Healing, aimed at facilitating cannabis-conscious experiences for others, solidifying her reputation as a spiritual cannabis guide within the industry.

As the medical cannabis landscape began to shift towards corporatization, Alyssa played a key role in Auntie Dolores's partnership with O.pen Vape, where she served as Central California Sales Manager, significantly contributing to the company's growth. Following the legalization of cannabis in 2018, she expanded her territory and collaborated with Dabbalicious, achieving remarkable sales and distribution success.

In 2019, her career took another leap when she joined forces with Tabby Gurtubay at Humboldt Farms. Together, they achieved remarkable success, selling millions in their first year and solidifying their positions in the market. Alyssa's sales acumen continued to shine at UNRIVALED, where she earned a reputation as one of the top Sales Managers, further establishing her influence in the cannabis sector.

In recent years, Alyssa co-founded ETHER Collective with Tabby Gurturbay, Karina Perez, and Ashley Poyorena, a Latina-owned and employee-operated cannabis sales agency and business development firm, that has generated over $85 million in year-to-date sales. Under her leadership, the company has focused on sustainable growth and diversity, representing a range of legacy and social equity brands. Alyssa's journey reflects her dedication to community, healing, and the transformative power of cannabis, inspiring others in the industry.

BUYER AT HYPERWOLF & ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE AT TURN

With nearly a decade of experience in the cannabis industry, Gizelle has been a driving force in the evolution of dispensaries, having managed operations since before legalization and thriving in the recreational market. For the past six years, she has served as the primary contact for buying and vendor relations at Hyperwolf, recently expanding her expertise into sales.

A first-generation college graduate of a single mother, Gizelle exemplifies a strong work ethic and professionalism in an industry known for its challenges. Passionate about empowering women in cannabis, she is dedicated to inspiring others to break the glass ceiling and showcase the incredible capabilities of women in this dynamic space.

FOUNDER AND CEO OF GALLERY PR

Sonia Hendrix is an award-winning publicist and founder of boutique agency, GALLERY PR, servicing clients in fashion, celebrity, motorsport, culinary arts and cannabis. Sonia's awards and accolades include, The PR Net "Next Gen Honoree," The PR Net's "Top 100 PR Agencies," Yale University "Women Innovators" Series Panelist, Clio Cannabis Awards Judge, and Most Influential Women in Cannabis in Variety Magazine. 

FOUNDER OF RANCHERA FAMILIA

Sue is a third generation Latina farmer.  Sue is an integrated business expert for marijuana and industrial hemp companies with almost a decade worth of experience creating award-winning edibles, growing for recreational marijuana farms and consulting on hemp start-ups with expertise ranging from licensing, to workplace flows, product selection, and product development. 

Her background encompasses a Master’s of Science degree in Community Health, a minor within Women’s studies and traditional Native American medicine with an acute knowledge of plants and herbs.  Ranchera Familia's roots lie within agriculture and health which sparked the creation of our boutique micro farm in California. Additionally, Sue’s personal tie to using cannabis for her autoimmune disorders has been a driving force in her looking to expand.

PUBLIC HEALTH PRACTITIONER & POLITICAL EDUCATOR

Jackie is a Mexican American and first-generation college graduate in her family. She is a health educator, researcher, and community health specialist. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and Sociology and a Master's degree in Public Health.

Jackie firmly believes in leveraging electoral politics to drive progressive policy changes that support the working class, demonstrating her dedication to systemic reform in public health. Ultimately the goal is to achieve health justice and liberation by ensuring policies and politics benefit the people.

ARLY ANGELES, FOUNDER OF @CANNAMOMMAA AND CO-FOUNDER OF THE DOOBIE PODCAST 

As a passionate advocate and influencer in the cannabis industry, Arly is dedicated to shedding light on the stigma surrounding cannabis use among parents. With a unique blend of personal experience and professional insight, Arly has become a trusted voice for modern parents navigating the world of cannabis.

As the creator of the popular Instagram account @cannamommaa, Arly shares a vibrant mix of pink, cute, and cozy content that resonates with parents seeking a balanced and informed approach to cannabis. Through engaging posts and stories, Arly empowers fellow cannamoms to embrace their lifestyle with confidence and authenticity.

In addition to her social media presence, Arly co-hosts the Doobie podcast, where she dives deep into cannabis lifestyle, recent cannabis news, and insightful conversations with special guests. The podcast aims to empower, educate, and entertain its audience, making it a valuable resource for parents interested in cannabis.

Arly’s mission is to break down barriers and promote a positive, stigma-free understanding of cannabis use among parents. By combining advocacy, education, and a touch of humor, she is changing the conversation around cannabis and parenthood for the better.

CO-FOUNDER OF PUFF AND PARLAY PODCAST

Renee , co-founder of Puff and Parlay, exemplifies the spirit of resilience and determination. Alongside her business partner Cece, Renee has created a thriving cannabis lifestyle brand that caters to cannamoms and enthusiasts alike. With over 40 years of combined experience in event production, design, and promotions within the entertainment industry, Renee and Cece have carved a niche for themselves. Their exceptional work has even been featured in Vogue, notably for their execution of NBA champion Draymond Green’s bud bar and floral arrangements.

Renee’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. As a single mother of two, this Peruvian/Mexican Latina juggles the demands of her business and personal life with remarkable grace. Her story is a testament to her strength and tenacity, having lost both her parents at the tender age of ten. Despite the immense challenges, Renee has persevered, proving her ability to overcome obstacles and jump over hurdles.

However, her path hasn’t been without struggles. Renee has faced her own battles with stress and anxiety, finding solace and relief in cannabis. This natural remedy has helped her navigate the storms of life and maintain her composure. Whether managing her business or enjoying recreational weed smoking with friends, Renee’s ability to remain composed is impressive. Her dry wit and confidence can crack even the hardest of nuts, making her a formidable presence in any setting.

Renee’s determination to shake things up is evident in her work and personal life. While she fights her natural distrust of the world, she remains committed to bringing the best weed and the finest experiences to her clientele. Her story is one of resilience, strength, and an unwavering pursuit of excellence.

FOUNDER OF @THEKUSHNURSE AND CO-FOUNDER OF CANNA NURSES OF COLOR 

Sandra Guynes, MSN, RN, is a  nurse educator with a focus on holistic health and healing. Operating under the brand The Kush Nurse® in San Diego, CA, she provides comprehensive health coaching and guidance for patients dealing with chronic conditions, pain, anxiety, and quality of life issues.

Sandra is the co-founder of Cannabis Nurses of Color (CNOC), where she works to promote education, collaboration, and support for nurses of color in the cannabis industry.

With 18 years of teaching experience, Sandra has served as a faculty member at institutions such as Pacific College of Health Sciences, Hampton University, Carolinas College of Health Sciences and Fortis College. Her areas of expertise include Public Health Education, Endocannabinoid Science, Cannabis Therapeutics, and Maternal Child Health.

Sandra is an active member of the Cannabis Nurses Network, Minority Cannabis Business Association, and the American Cannabis Nurses Association (ACNA), where she served on the Board of Directors from 2021 to 2022.

DENNISE MEJIA-GUERRERO, CO-FOUNDER OF ICBWA

Dennise was born in Bogota Colombia and migrated to the United States at the age of five. Dennise is a self-made serial entrepreneur and owner of various companies.  In 2003,Dennise became the Founding CEO of California Physician Network LLC. Providing currently multiple professional services, Consulting, Medical Billing, Non-emergency transportation and worker’s compensation lien litigation services to medical providers. 2010 Co-Founder of Donaly Inc Trucking and logistics and Co- Founder Vice President of ICBWA International Cannabis Consulting Business Women’s Association.

Dennise is a dedicated civic leader in her local community and was appointed as a State Delegate for the Democratic State Committee where she served as part of the Electoral College.  She is a past founder of the Chicano Latino Immigrant Democratic Club of Los Angeles County.  Past Vice President of the National Latina Business Women’s Association – Los Angeles. Co- Founder and Vice President of ICBWA International Cannabis Consulting Business Women’s Association and Board Member with the multiple Chambers of commerce Such as the California Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Panorama City, Granada Hills chamber of Commerce,Founding Board member of HCSB Hispanic Coalition Small Businesses. Actively as Advisory Council Co-Chair with Biz-Fed LA County. Board Member with Ofiso Community Foundation. and Advisory Board Member with Latino Coalition Los Angeles.

Nominated in 2019 By LA Style Magazine Entrepreneur of the year also Nominated in 2020 By the Los Angeles Business Journal as Entrepreneur of the year and nominated in 2021 by the Los Angeles Business Journal for Diversity and Inclusion award. Nominated for officer Role 2024 Advisor Council Co-Chair with Biz-Fed LA County. Recent nomination Board Member with Ofiso Community Foundation.

She is an influencer, mentor, business consultant and prides herself on developing meaningful working relationships to help build her communities. She has passion to Mentor and Empower Leadership in her communities in any opportunity with Millennials and future generations to help provide creative spaces in diverse business platforms such as ICBWA.

Recognitions: by Mayor Eric Garcetti, Senator Jimmy Gomez, Senator Steven Bradford, Senator Susan Rubio, Assemblywomen Blanca Rubio, Congresswoman Nannette Barragan.

CO-FOUNDER OF ICBWA & FOUNDER OF HBM TALENT

In the world of entertainment and entrepreneurship, Sophia stands as a true visionary, dedicated to making a lasting impact on society. As the founder and CEO of HBM Talent & Management, she has not only reshaped the entertainment industry but has also become an influential advocate for mental health and consulting women in the cannabis sector.

Sophia's journey in the entertainment world is marked by her unwavering commitment to talent and her passion for nurturing artists to reach their full potential. As the head of HBM Talent & Management, a boutique talent agency, she represents a diverse roster of clients across various divisions. Her keen eye for talent and dedication to their growth have solidified her reputation as a respected industry professional.

Sophia's commitment to education and empowerment extends to her role as the Co-founder and President of the International Cannabis Business Women’s Association (ICBWA). This Los Angeles-based nonprofit is dedicated to providing educational resources and support for female entrepreneurs in the cannabis industry. Through the ICBWA, Sophia aims to create a more inclusive and diverse landscape within the sector, empowering women to succeed in their entrepreneurial endeavors.

Sophia is a passionate advocate for the use of medical cannabis, especially for individuals and veterans experiencing mental health issues such as PTSD and anxiety. She has been featured as a speaker at several conferences and expos to help better educate the community and policy makers.

Sophia's exceptional achievements have earned her numerous accolades and recognition. She has been recognized with prestigious awards, including the 2021 Telly Award in the Social Impact category, the 2021 San Diego Hometown Hero Award, and the 2020 ABC 10 News Leadership Award, among others. Her accomplishments have been celebrated in various publications and digital articles, including The Top 100 U.S. Business Leaders Magazine, Forbes, The USA Reporter, and Latina Style Magazine.

Sophia's relentless dedication to empowering entrepreneurs, advocating for mental health, and making a lasting social impact has positioned her as an influential leader in her field. Through her multifaceted endeavors, she continues to inspire others and effect positive change, leaving an indelible mark on the industries she touches.

FOUNDER & CEO OF SKUNK MAGAZINE

As a woman in business for the last 26 years, Julie has enjoyed bringing green, cutting edge products successfully to market and empowering others to succeed. She is a medical cannabis user, a certified herbalist and believes in the use and protection of herbal medicines in all their forms. She is a champion of new style business that upholds the tenets of sustainability, empowered consumerism, philanthropy and a more intelligent use of our collective resources. She has successfully built and led the sales teams of various companies within the yoga, health and wellness industries and entered the Cannabis market in the vaporizer manufacturing segment 18 years ago, where she was blessed to cultivate a global network of friends and activists. In her travels, she has heard stories that have touched and enraged her and have moved her to action in her work as Owner and Editor-in-chief at SKUNK Magazine in empowering small businesses to succeed and giving a voice to the unseen and unheard that continue to suffer and be torn apart by this heinous public crime.

She is devoted to a green renaissance, not a green/greed rush and she is just one in the midst of millions who are banding together globally to tear the ugly plague of cannabis prohibition down, creating healing and empowerment for the people and the planet.

SKUNK Magazine is a 18 year old global cannabis publication that has been devoted to teaching organic, sustainable cultivation practices and featuring the highest quality genetics in the world. We have taught millions of people to grow organically at home and are a rich resource of information where all of the best minds and companies in the cannabis industry come together and speak. Our educators are the finest growers, breeders, scientists, craft makers, business owners and activists in the global movement.  

CO-FOUNDER OF SOL Y LUNA PREMIUM

Kerlin is a seasoned entrepreneur fueled by a passion for innovation and community empowerment. With a diverse background spanning marketing, media, and educational philanthropy, Kerlin's journey has been marked by a relentless drive to make a difference. Leveraging her expertise, she co-owns Sol Y Luna, a premium infused drinks company that has quickly made its mark as the first THC-infused juice made in Texas and proudly Latino-owned a testament to her unwavering commitment to quality and authenticity.

Not content with conventional boundaries, Kerlin and her partner are poised to open a new dispensary in Houston, Texas, called Seaside Greenery. This exciting venture reflects the growing acceptance of cannabis and aims to create a welcoming space that prioritizes education and community engagement, enhancing local access to quality products.

Kerlin's impact extends far beyond entrepreneurship. As the CEO of a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing education for immigrant, refugee, and minority students, she is actively shaping futures in the Dominican Republic, Honduras, and Texas, bridging gaps and opening doors for underserved communities.

Her dedication to social change has not gone unnoticed. Kerlin has received numerous prestigious awards, including the Women of Distinction Award by the Mexican American Chambers of Commerce of Texas in 2021, recognizing her as a trailblazer in business and entrepreneurship. In 2022, her contributions garnered international acclaim with the International Award, celebrating her as one of the most impactful women and one of four superheroes changing the world. In 2023, her exemplary service to underserved communities in Houston earned her the Community Service Award by Dream Unleashed Networks, powered by Comcast, further solidifying her legacy of making a difference.

Additionally, Kerlin is an author and co-writer of "The Girls Who Refused to Quit," a book empowering women worldwide to persevere and thrive. Her goal is to continue blending her business acumen with her philanthropic spirit, paving the way for positive change and innovation across her industries.

FOUNDER OF FLOWER BABY DESIGNS & CO-OWNER NAUGHTY DABS CO.

Yesenia is a floral designer with over 15 years of experience in the floral industry and co-owner of Naughty Dabs since 2023. Naughty Dabs Co. is a luxury dab service.