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Join NY Cannabis Insider at our next industry networking event on Aug. 15 at Madame Mikette’s in NYC. Tickets will sell out.
Khari Edwards AYR Wellness’ head of corporate and social responsibility. He answered eight simple questions for NY Cannabis Insider’s “People to know” series.
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What is your position and what do you/your company do in the cannabis space?
I am the head of corporate and social responsibility for AYR Wellness, a vertically integrated multistate cannabis operator.
How long have you worked in the cannabis space?
I have been a part of the legal cannabis space for a little under two years.
What did you do before you were involved in the cannabis industry?
Prior to working within the cannabis industry, I was the vice president of external affairs for 10 years for Brookdale Hospital and a former candidate for Brooklyn Borough President.
What led you to the cannabis industry?
My role in health and social advocacy made the transition to cannabis seamless. My main priority with AYR is creating opportunities for a variety of communities who relate to cannabis. I get to address health, economic and social justice inequities in this role.
Do you have any advice for someone looking to get into the NY weed industry?
Keep an open mind and do not settle on one pathway. There are so many ways to get into this industry. You do not have to be plant-touching to be successful. BUT IT TAKES A LOT OF WORK, attention to detail and commitment.
What do you think the NY cannabis ecosystem will look like in five years?
I am excited for the future of the New York cannabis industry. In five years, I believe the intention of making sure communities most impacted on the War on Drugs have a fair opportunity to succeed will come to fruition. I feel we can create a thriving ecosystem between labor, MSOs, legacy brands, and farmers, where we all can carve out a piece of a huge pie.
Do you use cannabis? If so, what’s your favorite method?
I am a little past being canna-curious at this point. I have tried almost every method. My favorite is vaping, and I do enjoy taking a pull of rolled flower in the evening to go to sleep.
Who should contact you, and what’s the best method?
Follow our CSR Instagram page @Ayrsocialimpact. Feel free to send any emails to Khari.edwards@ayrwellness.com and connect with me on LinkedIn @KhariEdwards.