In the world of cannabis, everything begins with the female plant. This May, as we celebrate Mother’s Day, it is only fitting that we shine a spotlight on a few of the women who are providing the leadership, science, and advocacy necessary to move our industry forward in 2026.
Here are three trailblazers currently redefining what it means to be a professional in the cannabis space.
Service and Sanctuary: Sarah Stenuf
Sarah Stenuf is a US Army veteran who has dedicated her life to helping fellow veterans find recovery. Through Ananda Farms and the Veterans Ananda retreat, she utilizes homesteading and plant-based recovery to support those dealing with trauma. Her mission-driven approach is a masterclass in how to build a business with a soul.
Sustainability Through Science: Daniela Vergara
The future of the industry depends on how we treat the earth. Scientist Daniela Vergara is leading the charge in agricultural sustainability. By working directly with farmers, she is uncovering ways to utilize the “whole plant,” including using non-THC parts for mulch and animal bedding. Her work helps bridge the gap between traditional agriculture and the modern hemp industry.
Policy and Representation: Wanda for Congress
True change requires a seat at the table. Wanda, a seasoned dispensary owner and long-term partner of Cannabis Trainers, is running for the US Congress to bring real-world industry experience to the legislative level. Her transition from business owner to political candidate is a testament to the influence women hold in shaping the legal and social framework of our country.
The Path Forward
The common thread among these women is their commitment to leaving the industry better than they found it. Whether it is through healing, research, or legislation, their contributions provide the foundation for a more compliant and compassionate future.
This month, join us in celebrating the mothers, the leaders, and the visionaries who keep our industry growing.
FAQ
Why is the “Mother Plant” the theme for May? In our industry, everything starts with the female plant. As we celebrate Mother’s Day, it is the perfect time to honor both the plant and the women who nurture the industry through leadership, science, and community support. It is a tribute to the growth and resilience we see across the cannabis landscape.
How does agricultural science like Daniela Vergara’s help local farmers? Sustainability is the future of our industry. By finding innovative ways to use the entire plant, such as utilizing non-THC components for animal bedding and mulch, experts like Daniela are helping farmers reduce waste and create new revenue streams. This “whole plant” approach makes the entire supply chain more efficient and eco-friendly.
Why is it important for cannabis business owners to get involved in policy? Leaders like Wanda bring a unique perspective to the legislative table. Having someone in Congress who understands the day-to-day realities of running a compliant dispensary ensures that new laws are practical and supportive of business owners. Representation is a key part of moving from a “fringe” industry to a fully professionalized one.
How can I support the veterans mentioned in the article? You can learn more about Sarah Stenuf’s mission by visiting Veterans Ananda. They offer various ways to get involved, from supporting their homesteading retreats to spreading awareness about non-traditional recovery methods for those who have served.
How does Cannabis Trainers help individuals become leaders? Education is the foundation of leadership. Whether you are inspired by the science of sustainability or the drive for political change, it all starts with a deep understanding of your business and its responsibilities.
Our Sell-SMaRT™ Responsible Vendor Training and Supervisor Skills Fundamentals classes are designed to give you the confidence to lead your team effectively. By mastering compliance and communication today, you are preparing yourself to be the next trailblazer in the industry.
Where can I find the next live class date? You can view our full schedule of live and on-demand classes on our training page. If you are ready to strengthen your foundation, we would love to see you in our next session!
