Groundbreaking study to explore women’s experiences in the cannabis industry

The Women in Cannabis study is part of a global effort to document the stories of women working in the cannabis, CBD and hemp industries.

The survey, which is already receiving responses from women in the US and Canada, is now open for respondents who work in the UK cannabis industry.

The study aims to understand the experiences of women in the emerging, male-dominated industry, since medical cannabis was legalised in the UK in November 2018.

It will explore women’s thoughts on opportunities for leadership, mentorship and raising capital while also looking at work-life balance and the role of cannabis in their lives and in the workplace.

Described as a ‘groundbreaking study’, its goal is to help develop recommendations and strategies that support inclusivity for everyone in the industry.

The survey is largely quantitative but those who have qualitative feedback to share will be invited to submit written feedback or participate in a telephone interview.

The UK arm of the global survey – which is being led by Ladyjane Branding and Fordis Consulting – will be analysed in partnership with Dr Callie Seaman.

Dr Seaman is a veteran member of the hydroponics industry and early advocate of the medical cannabis movement in the UK.

“Dr Callie Seaman’s expertise and long-standing position within the emergent cannabis industry in the UK makes her a perfect partner to carry out the UK portion of this study,” said Jennifer Whetzel of Ladyjane Branding.

Seaman first became passionate about medical cannabis when she was diagnosed with epilepsy over 20 years ago.

To learn more about how cannabinoids can affect human health, she pursued a degree in Biomedical Sciences, and then went on to complete a PhD on the hydroponic growth of plants at Sheffield Hallam University.

Her educational experiences led her to become the founding director of Aqua Laboratories Limited, which formulates and produces hydroponic nutrients.

She is also Scientific Co-Director of a program called CANNTalks: A Conversation on Cannabis at Cambridge University and works with a UK CBD producer, while also acting as a consultant for licensed producers who are getting their facilities up and running.

“Seaman is well-connected within the UK cannabis industry and will provide outstanding leadership for women within the UK by encouraging them to participate in this study,” added Whetzel.

“We couldn’t be more thrilled to include her amongst our robust group of study partners.”

The Women in Cannabis Study is available at www.womenincannabis.study