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Shanice Brown is the store manager, and buyer at VERDI Cannabis, a licensed dispensary in Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood. She answered eight simple questions for NY Cannabis Insider’s “People to know” series.
What is your position and what do you/your company do in the cannabis space?
I’m the store manager and buyer at VERDI Cannabis.
How long have you worked in the cannabis space?
11 years.
What did you do before you were involved in the cannabis industry?
I’ve lived so many lives before the licensed industry. Before working in the cannabis industry, I was a producer for fashion shows and a luxury retail manager.
What led you to the cannabis industry?
When I moved back home to California, there weren’t many options for careers that interested me. I was looking for what felt right at that moment and the dispensary manager was the choice I made. It was a new experience in the licensed market!
Do you have any advice for someone looking to get into the NY weed industry?
Of course. Frequent events and join various educational programs that are offered in the city! Pop into licensed dispensaries and make your presence known. It goes a long way.
What do you think the NY cannabis ecosystem will look like in five years?
I am looking forward to indoor grow operations coming into this space, and regulations changing so that licensed dispensaries can actually have a chance at thriving instead of competing with smoke shops. I am also hoping for more eco-friendly packaging amongst brands. Lastly, I’m hoping to see more women, non-binary, and non-gender conforming cannabis workers get the recognition that they deserve.
Do you use cannabis? If so, what’s your favorite method and why?
I get HIGH. My favorite method is smoking flowers out of a bong. I’m currently stuck on my GRAV or Studenglass pieces. Running a business is difficult and being in this industry can be trying, so when I get my personal time to unwind, I don’t like to waste time. I mill my flower and light an incense. Put music on and light my bowl. It’s an incredible feeling to me.
What’s the best method for people to contact you?
If you are a creative, in cannabis, in fashion, entrepreneur or someone who is curious about the industry, reach out to me via email: shanice@verdicannabis.com.