Women in the new cannabis industry face diverse challenges yet have established themselves as leaders, innovators and trailblazers. The Alcazar Theatre in Carpinteria will host a panel of inspirational women in the cannabis industry on Friday, March 18, at 7 p.m. to discuss how they carved out their space in the newly legal cannabis industry and what obstacles they faced on their journey.

Since voters passed the Adult Use of Marijuana Act (Prop 64) in 2016, the state of California has been at the forefront of the nationwide movement toward the legalization of cannabis. Countless challenges have arisen for the young cannabis industry as the state, counties and local jurisdictions create regulatory frameworks for the growth, distribution and sales of a plant mired in decades of stigma.

Sponsored by Cannabis by the Sea Magazine, the Leading Women in Cannabis panel discussion is a free event. Speakers will dive deep into a conversation addressing the trials and tribulations of creating a new industry and the stamina needed for success, sustainability and growth. Women at the forefront of the new industry will describe their unique challenges and how they continue to lead and forge new pathways.

“Compelled by passion and gratitude, many women left their traditional jobs in established industries to work in cannabis and ensure its accessibility for anyone who needs it,” said Tina Fanucchi-Frontado, who serves on the Women Making Change committee. Women Making Change is a full month of programming at Alcazar Theatre in honor of Women’s History Month.

Moderated by Liz Rogan, founder of the Cannabis Business Council of Santa Barbara, the Leading Women in Cannabis panel is comprised of Hanna Brand, Partner and Head of Sales at Autumn Brands; Leialoha Cail, Retail District Manager at Glass House Brands; Courtney Frazer, leading cannabis advocate focused on health and wellness; Sabrina Noah, Compliance Director at Cresco; Autumn Shelton, Partner and CFO at Autumn Brands; and Diana Starr Langley, CEO/Co-Founder at Green Rush Alliances. Land use and water attorney Amy Steinfeld, who specializes in cannabis and hemp, will present opening remarks.

To learn more about Leading Women in Cannabis, visit https://www.thealcazar.org/.