Gen Z Women And Cannabis: Unleashing The Power Of The Future

By Author: Sativa Bliss Canabis
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Cannabis, the wonder plant, has been a steadfast companion in my life's journey. From high school dime bags to soothing pipe hits in the car, it has provided solace amidst the storms. Raised by traditional Chinese-born parents, cannabis was strictly off-limits, mirroring the enduring stigma that still clings to this miraculous herb. But defiance runs deep, and with each confiscated stash, I would resolutely replenish it. It's been a lifelong love affair.

In the turbulence of my existence, cannabis has been my anchor, fostering tranquility and elevating my spirits, regardless of the chaos. It's my ally against chronic insomnia and a game-changer in managing my mood swings. In moments where conventional medicine fell short, cannabis emerged with its natural healing prowess. Diagnosed with ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and addiction, marijuana has played a pivotal role in maintaining my mental, physical, and spiritual well-being.

The cannabis industry is on a meteoric rise, with global sales projected to reach a staggering $150 billion by 2031. In the past year alone, the legal marijuana market surged ...
... to $16.7 billion, boasting a compound annual growth rate exceeding 25% from 2023 to 2030. This is no small feat for a plant that embarked on the path to legalization only in 1996. Fascinatingly, Gen Z females have emerged as the frontrunners, experiencing a 151% increase in year-to-year sales from 2020, outpacing all other demographics. Gen Z men follow closely behind at 118%. It's noteworthy that the growth of female cannabis consumers in the US is outpacing that of males, at 55% versus 49%.

But could the future of cannabis indeed be female? While historically a male-dominated arena, women presently account for about one-third of cannabis consumers. Bain & Co.'s research reveals that wellness is the primary motivation for women, while men often cite social reasons for using cannabis.

There are multiple facets to why Gen Z women are turning to cannabis. Healthcare costs in the US, especially for young adults, are exorbitant. Cannabis emerges as a more affordable alternative to some pharmaceutical expenses. Moreover, Gen Z women are coming of age in a time when cannabis is normalized, and the fear-mongering tactics of "reefer madness" hold little sway. Unlike older generations who had to skirt the law to access cannabis, today's youth can purchase products in various forms and non-threatening packaging. They can even visit legal consumption lounges across the nation.

My own journey led me to obtain a medical cannabis card during college at the University of California—Santa Barbara. Walking into a doctor's office with a penchant for going shoeless, I explained why I needed cannabis for my chronic insomnia, but also how it alleviated the stresses of college life—maintaining a passing GPA, working part-time to cover rent, managing anxiety, and, admittedly, curing hangovers.

Today, the age of 21 opens the doors of any dispensary for recreational cannabis shopping. The real revelation came when music executive and manager Steve Lobel founded The Heavenly Center, a rehab facility in Studio City, CA, that employs cannabis to aid addicts in recovery. It's genius. To date, there hasn't been a single death from cannabis overdose.

However, the stigma surrounding cannabis persists. At 32, I'm a journalist and on-camera host based in LA, and my accidental stint as a "cannabis influencer" has been both rewarding and fulfilling. The industry has embraced me with open arms, showering me with products, campaign collaborations, and sponsorship for my podcast series, "Shirley's Temple." Launched during the pandemic, it's designed as a safe haven for open conversations while promoting mental health awareness. My guest list includes Trippie Redd, G-Eazy, B-Real, Doggface, Ricky Williams, Mozzy, Gangsta Boo, YBN Nahmir, and more, sharing a smoke and stories.

This booming industry has not only allowed us to enjoy the plant but also carve out careers from it. The latest Women & Minorities in the Cannabis Industry Report from MJBizDaily reveals that 41.9% of cannabis industry jobs are held by women, surpassing the national average of 46.8% for US businesses.

Women are increasingly asserting their presence in cannabis businesses, with a focus on ownership, leadership, and advocacy. As they strive for greater representation, unity, and equality, the future is bright. In fact, 19.9% of national cannabis businesses are owned by women, and Nevada stands out as the only state where women own a higher percentage of cannabis companies compared to other industries.

Female consumers often support women-led businesses, contributing to their success. A woman's touch, characterized by love, care, and nurturing, brings a unique dimension to any industry. Female consumers also tend to research brands, strains, and products, making informed purchasing decisions that drive innovation and community-building. As cannabis educator Tammy Pettigrew, known as the "Cannabis Cutie," suggests, the future holds promises of expanding into more markets with innovative ideas.

The US, she notes, lags in cannabis research. Yet, with impending federal legalization, the country is poised to become a global contender, offering women opportunities to excel in the industry.

Only female cannabis plants produce THC-rich buds, mirroring the human world where only women can give birth. Male cannabis plants produce only pollen sacs, which serve no purpose in the flowering process.

A future guided by empowered Gen Z women, as witnessed in the rising wave of female consumers, holds boundless potential. My advice to women venturing into this predominantly male industry is simple: research extensively, shed your fears, ask questions, and take your shot. Failure often paves the path to success.

Today, I contemplate the possibility of launching a cannabis-friendly movie theater. Who's up for the adventure? I have a hunch that a powerful Gen Z woman might be the missing piece the industry—and my business—truly needs.

In a world where the future of cannabis appears female, the horizon is radiant with possibilities.