Empowering Voices: A Candid Conversation with Brooke Silversides, Co-Founder on IWD and Navigating the Cannabis Industry

Meet Brooke Silversides, the driving force behind 1922 as its Co-Founder & Director. An embodiment of the coolest, most understanding, and down-to-earth boss imaginable – the kind every employee dreams of having. Beyond her professional prowess, Brooke is renowned as the best plant mom and an all-around remarkable human. We recently caught up with her for an insightful conversation on International Women's Day and her experiences as a dynamic woman in the cannabis industry.

Q: Can you tell us how you found your way into the cannabis industry?

A: The journey was unplanned, aligning with the unfolding legalization around 2016-2017. With a background in sociology and a passion for social change, the industry's social construction aspects fascinated me.

"The industry, more like cannabis just as a whole, couldn’t be a better fit for me since my background is in sociology, with a focus on social construction – I am fascinated with people’s understandings and assignments of meaning."

Q: What were some significant challenges you faced within the industry?

A: The biggest challenges were the initial entrance, navigating the cannabis lottery, and opening amid the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite the odds, determination and adaptability prevailed.

"It actually might be easier to list what hasn’t been a hurdle... But I think through all of this being a female has been an unassuming advantage, and I try to utilize my advantages."

Q: Have you faced stigma being involved in the cannabis industry?

A: Undoubtedly. Stigma persists, whether for being a woman in the industry or a cannabis user in society. It's a daily encounter, but I embrace it, using it as an opportunity to challenge misconceptions.

"I think it’s important for women to contribute to every industry, to everything ☺ but I think the representation of everyone is fundamental if I’m being honest. Ok, but with cannabis, absolutely women are fundamental in the industry."

Q: What privileges or challenges do women stereotypically face within the Cannabis Industry?

A: The industry itself is a privilege, but being constantly underestimated is a challenge. People often make assumptions based on gender, but it allows me to evaluate intentions while leaning into my instincts.

"Ahhhh, to pick one, okay, I mean there are so many. But alright, one I feel strongly about is that cannabis users are unproductive or lazy. FALSE."

Q: Do you think it’s important for women to contribute to the cannabis industry, and why?

A: Absolutely. Women bring essential perspectives and experiences to reshape the negative narrative surrounding cannabis. Progression in the industry is only possible with the active involvement of women.

"Unquestionably. I face stigma with every encounter and experience, whether it’s stigma for being a woman (let alone a knowledgeable woman) in the cannabis industry or being a cannabis user in a larger society."

Q: Where would you like to see the legal cannabis industry in 5 years?

A: Hopes include amendments to policies related to criminal cannabis possession and racial overrepresentation. Operationally, I hope for smoother processes and aligned goals among stakeholders.

"My hopes for where it will be and the reality of it are very different, and I think an awareness of that is important, from every facet of the industry."

Q: What is one stereotype of cannabis usage that you believe is totally false and why?

A: The false stereotype that cannabis users are unproductive or lazy. It's a misunderstanding based on uneducated opinions; cannabis users can be highly productive and functional.

Q: What advice would you give to the next generation of female entrepreneurs?

A: Don’t fear failure. It’s an inevitable part of the journey that builds character and intelligence. Learn, process, and try again; it separates the women from the boys.

Q: Why do we need more women in leadership?

A: Women bring equality, diversity, intellect, and unique perspectives. Balance is essential in a heterogeneous world, and resistance to this is simply an illusion.

"Equality, diversity, intellect, perspective, progression - I mean there are so endless reasons we need more women in leadership."

Q: What does International Women’s Day mean to you?

A: While I have mixed feelings about assigned days, I fully support the celebration of women's achievements. Women showcase resilience, compassion, and leadership, and the day is a reminder of that.

"In the spirit of the day, my support and celebration of women are unquestionably absolute. The agency women create independently and collectively is genuine."

Q: What’s your International Women’s Day message?

A: Keep making waves and creating change while holding your space and maintaining your focus because, as women, we got this!

"Keep making waves and making change while holding your space and maintaining your focus because as women, we got this!"

Interview by: Ke-Xin Richardson -1922 Community Marketing Specialist