Women of Cannabis: Wanda James paves the way for black businesses

Co-founder and CEO of Simply Pure – Wanda James has been a trail blazer for women and the black community in the cannabis industry. She is a truly admirable woman as she is the first African-American women to own a marijuana dispensary in the United States. She has also worked on the National Finance Committee for President Barack Obama, in her earlier years. Not only that, she is also a military veteran and former lieutenant in the United States Navy! In recent years, Wanda James has taken over the cannabis industry in her home of Denver, Colorado, while remaining a powerful advocate for equity, empowering black-owned business owners to follow suit. Simply Pure’s coveted, humble storefront is located in the historic, now trendy Highland area of the city. James powers forward today as a strong advocate for business owners in the space.

“Never ever, ever, ever give up. If you are truly an entrepreneur you never stop. Failure is not an option. Lessons may sometimes be costly, both financially and emotionally, but true entrepreneurs never say never. We say, ‘OK.  What did I learn and how did that make me smarter, stronger and more experienced and ready to do it again?’” she says when asked for advice she wants to give any budding entrepreneurs.

In 2018 James was named one of the 100 Most Influential People in the cannabis industry by High Times Magazine, 2015 she was named one of the TOP 50 Female Executives by the Cannabis Business Executive (CBE) and in 2010 James was named the Marijuana Advocate of the Year by Westword Magazine. She has appeared on numerous television shows, including The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, CBS Sunday Morning, CNBC's Marijuana USA, and Smile Jamaica.

We admire such inspiring women! And learn from them every day. If you’re a woman who wants to get started on her cannabis journey, browse our wide range of products for women and use code WMN 10 to get 15% off.