Two cannabis entrepreneur stories make headlines at Benzinga conference

During a fireside chat on the second day of the Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference, panelists Dreka Gates and Quantay “Bosco” Adams They shared insights on how cannabis has shaped their entrepreneurial and advocacy journeys.chairperson Beard Brothers Farms Co-Founder Bill Liversthe discussion revealed the complex relationship between the cannabis industry and an individual’s path toward social and economic empowerment.

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Bridging cannabis and wellness

Gates, developer of plant-based wellness product line Doreka He entered the cannabis industry with a venture in Mississippi. harvest of loveaims to make cannabis more accessible by highlighting its role in holistic healing. With her 17-year career in the music industry, Gates’ entrepreneurial skills have seamlessly transitioned into her cannabis endeavors, reflecting her strong commitment to improving health and communities. .

“I’m excited to help move the industry forward, especially in Mississippi. Mississippi is a forgotten but beautiful place. It’s a blank canvas,” Gates said, adding that her state still has untapped potential. He emphasized that there is a chance.

Journey from imprisonment to advocacy

An author, producer, advocate, and speaker, Adams shared a harrowing but inspiring story of resilience. He was arrested for marijuana possession in 2004 and sentenced to 35 years in prison, but solitary confinement did not dampen his spirits. In fact, he self-published a book, Chasing Freedom, outlining his life’s journey from Compton to cannabis advocacy.

Now, Adams has dedicated his freedom to uplifting those trapped in the drug war, highlighting the need for support for incarcerated and underserved communities within the cannabis industry. “Many of us want to be rich, but we must remember that there are people who are suffering from the war on drugs,” Adams said, to thunderous applause from the conference audience. It was done.

Entrepreneurship as a vector for social change

Despite their different paths, both panelists agreed that entrepreneurship plays a vital role in navigating the complexities of the cannabis industry. Through their unique journeys, Adams and Gates show that with determination and a willingness to take calculated risks, it is possible to overcome systemic barriers.

Also read: Cannabis Diversification’s Biggest Secret: Industry Leaders Reveal Strategies for Success at Benzinga Conference

Vision of impact and growth

At the conclusion of the panel discussion, Dreka Gates envisioned her role in health and wellness, aiming to become a leading figure in holistic plant medicine. Mr. Adams will focus on content creation and spotlight stories that contribute to the broader narrative of drug policy reform.

Livers’ conclusion highlighted the irony of debating a once-illicit activity in a formal, high-profile forum, and was a poignant conclusion to a panel rich with lessons about the transformative power of cannabis.

Photo credit: Jean Laurenceau