How to Find a Mentor in the Cannabis Industry as a BIPOC Woman

Navigating the cannabis industry as a BIPOC woman comes with unique challenges. From overcoming systemic barriers to carving out a space in a rapidly evolving market, the journey can be daunting. One powerful way to ensure success is by finding a mentor who can offer guidance, support, and valuable insights. A mentor can help you navigate the complexities of the industry, provide encouragement, and open doors that might otherwise be closed.

Here’s how you can find a mentor in the cannabis industry as a BIPOC woman:

1. Identify Your Goals and Needs

Before seeking out a mentor, it’s important to clearly define what you want to achieve. Are you looking for advice on starting your own cannabis business, learning the ropes of the industry, or finding ways to balance entrepreneurship with personal life? Knowing your goals will help you find a mentor whose experience and expertise align with your aspirations.

Action Step: Write Down Your Goals

Take time to reflect and write down what you hope to gain from a mentorship. This will not only guide your search but also help you articulate your needs when approaching potential mentors.

2. Leverage Professional Networks

Networking is key to finding a mentor. Attend industry conferences, webinars, and events where cannabis professionals gather. Many events have specific sessions or meetups for women and BIPOC individuals. Engaging with these communities can put you in touch with potential mentors who share your values and experiences.

Resources:

• Women Grow: An organization dedicated to connecting, educating, and empowering women in the cannabis industry. They host networking events across the country and offer a supportive community for women.
• Minorities for Medical Marijuana (M4MM): A non-profit organization that provides advocacy, outreach, and education focused on the needs of communities of color in the cannabis industry. They also have networking opportunities and resources.

3. Utilize Online Platforms

In today’s digital age, finding a mentor can be as simple as a few clicks. LinkedIn is a valuable tool for connecting with industry professionals. Join cannabis-related groups, participate in discussions, and don’t be afraid to reach out directly to individuals whose careers you admire. Websites like MentorCity and SCORE offer mentorship programs that can help you connect with experienced professionals in the cannabis industry.

Resources:

• LinkedIn Groups
• MentorCity: A platform that connects mentors and mentees across various industries, including cannabis.
• SCORE: While not cannabis-specific, SCORE offers free mentorship for small business owners and entrepreneurs, with many mentors experienced in emerging industries.

4. Join Industry Associations

Becoming a member of cannabis industry associations can open doors to mentorship opportunities. Many of these organizations have mentorship programs or can help connect you with experienced professionals who are willing to offer guidance.

Resources:

• National Cannabis Industry Association (NCIA): The largest cannabis trade association in the U.S., offering networking opportunities, educational resources, and a community of professionals.

5. Seek Out Formal Mentorship Programs

Some organizations offer structured mentorship programs specifically designed to support women and minorities in the cannabis industry. These programs often pair you with a mentor who has the experience and expertise to guide you in your career or business journey.

Resources:

• Eaze Momentum: A business accelerator program focused on providing BIPOC and underrepresented cannabis entrepreneurs with resources, funding, and mentorship.
• Marijuana Industry Group (MIG) Mentorship Program: Offers mentorship opportunities to minorities and women in the cannabis industry, helping them build successful careers.

6. Don’t Be Afraid to Reach Out

Sometimes, the best way to find a mentor is to simply ask. If there’s someone in the industry you admire, reach out with a thoughtful message explaining why you’d like them to be your mentor. Be respectful of their time, and be clear about what you hope to gain from the relationship.

Action Step: Craft a Thoughtful Introduction

When reaching out, personalize your message. Mention why you admire their work, how their experience aligns with your goals, and what specific guidance you’re seeking.

7. Be Open to Peer Mentorship

While traditional mentorship often involves a more experienced mentor guiding a less experienced mentee, peer mentorship can be equally valuable. Connecting with other BIPOC women who are also navigating the cannabis industry can provide mutual support, shared knowledge, and encouragement.

Resources:

• Women of Color in Cannabis (WOCC): A community focused on empowering women of color in the cannabis industry through networking, education, and peer support.
• Cannaclusive: An organization dedicated to facilitating inclusion and representation of people of color in the cannabis industry. They offer resources and support for peer mentorship.

8. Attend BIPOC-Focused Events and Conferences

BIPOC-focused cannabis events are a great place to meet potential mentors who understand your unique challenges and experiences. These events often feature panels, workshops, and networking opportunities that cater specifically to the needs of BIPOC women in the industry.

Resources:

• CannaBiz Summit & Expo: Offers dedicated sessions for minorities and women in the cannabis industry.
• Black CannaBusiness Conference: Focuses on providing resources, education, and networking opportunities for Black entrepreneurs in cannabis.

Conclusion

Finding a mentor in the cannabis industry as a BIPOC woman can be a transformative experience, offering guidance, support, and a pathway to success. By leveraging professional networks, utilizing online platforms, joining industry associations, and attending events, you can connect with a mentor who aligns with your goals and can help you navigate the unique challenges of the cannabis industry. Remember, mentorship is a two-way street; be prepared to offer value in return, whether through your own insights, enthusiasm, or a willingness to pay it forward in the future. Together, we can build a more inclusive and thriving cannabis industry for all.