Black History Month is a time to reflect on the contributions of those who have shaped our world across various industries. The cannabis sector is no different, with several Black leaders making impactful strides toward equity, social justice, and systemic change. Here, we highlight four remarkable individuals who are leading the charge in making a lasting impact.
One such leader is Tuulikki Robertson, a passionate advocate for social justice and the Executive Director of The Black Institute (TBI). Tuulikki’s work in the cannabis industry has focused on dismantling the barriers that have disproportionately affected communities of color. As a co-founder of the Social Equity and Racial Justice G0roup, she spearheads efforts to address the systemic inequities within cannabis legalization. Her leadership has given rise to vital programs like “Are You Ready?” and the S.E.E.D. Program, both designed to prepare and empower underserved communities with the necessary tools and knowledge to enter the cannabis space. Additionally, Tuulikki’s vision led to the creation of Canna Ball NYC, an annual event that honors those making significant contributions to cannabis justice and advocacy.
Another standout figure is Tosin Ajayi, MPA, a dedicated advocate for cannabis policy reform and equity. Tosin, who serves as the Senior Policy and Research Analyst for Cannabis NYC, works tirelessly to ensure that Black and Brown communities are not left behind in the wave of cannabis legalization. Her efforts in shaping cannabis regulations have provided a platform for marginalized voices in the city. Tosin was instrumental in the launch of the Cannabis NYC Loan Fund, a groundbreaking initiative designed to support justice-impacted entrepreneurs in launching their own cannabis businesses. She is also a co-founder of Holistic Remedies LLC and the creator of CannaPolicy at NYU Wagner, a program focused on responsible legalization practices. Recognized as a 2024 City & State 40 Under 40 Rising Star, Tosin’s advocacy is rooted in restorative justice, economic empowerment, and racial equity—values she works tirelessly to embed within the cannabis industry. Her goal is to repair past harms and build lasting generational wealth for Black communities.
Todd Hughes and Brandon Wyatt are also making waves as co-founders of BCB Mastermind, an elite executive training program designed to elevate minority-owned cannabis and hemp businesses. Their backgrounds are as unique as their work in the industry: Todd is a mechanical engineer with a wealth of project management experience, while Brandon, a disabled combat veteran and Howard Law graduate, has used cannabis to help heal from his own service-related injuries. Together, they created BCB Mastermind to provide aspiring cannabis entrepreneurs with the knowledge, resources, and capital necessary to succeed in a space that has been historically unwelcoming to marginalized communities.
Their program, which focuses on leadership, business development, and navigating the regulatory landscape, has already supported numerous Black and Brown entrepreneurs in cannabis. Their holistic approach empowers participants to tackle barriers to entry and think deeply about their role in the industry. Todd and Brandon’s work is reshaping the way cannabis businesses are built and helping to create a more inclusive and equitable industry for the next generation of entrepreneurs.
These trailblazing leaders remind us of the power of advocacy, community-building, and transformative leadership. We honor their commitment to creating a more equitable and inclusive cannabis industry–history in the making!