Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to honor and celebrate the rich contributions of Latinx individuals and communities to our society. This month, we shine a spotlight on some remarkable Latin-owned cannabis brands that are not only making waves in the industry but also championing causes close to their hearts
Mota Glass: Crafting Quality, Empowering Communities
In November 2020, Mota Glass emerged on the scene with a dual mission: to elevate the functional glass industry’s standards and to empower marginalized workers within it. Hailing from Los Angeles, this glass company isn’t just about producing high-quality, locally-made borosilicate glass – it’s about creating stable jobs with livable wages and career pathways for the often-overlooked minority workforce. Mota Glass also proudly collaborates with BIPOC and other minority artists, amplifying their voices and talents.
Founders Susie Plascencia, a Mexican American entrepreneur and cannabis activist, and Bobby Lady, a veteran born to Honduran American parents, both share a commitment to putting people and community before profits.
Higher Dining: Elevating Cannabis Cuisine to Art
Enter the world of Higher Dining, founded by cannabis experts, seasoned chefs, and event planners extraordinaire, sisters Shanelly and Roshelly Pena. This unique culinary venture not only offers exquisitely prepared meals but also incorporates proper pot dosages per course, tailored to each guest’s strain preferences. Whether you seek relaxation or relief from physical and mental stressors, Higher Dining is here to provide you with an unforgettable, cannabis-infused dining experience. Trusted by aficionados and businesses alike in New York City and beyond, they are pioneers in the world of cannabis cuisine.
Mi Sota Essence: Handcrafted, All Natural, Premium
Meet Veronika Alfaro, the heart of Mi Sota Essence. As a proud Minnesotana (Latina + Minnesotan), Veronika blends her Mexican heritage and Midwestern roots to bring a fresh vision for cannabis in Minnesota. A first-generation Mexican American from the Twin Cities, she has built a brand that celebrates culture, community, and wellness.
Her journey began with her own transformation. Cannabis helped her reconnect with herself, her body, and her relationship with movement. It’s a tool that allows her to be more present as a mom, wife, and entrepreneur, and that joy is infused in every Mi Sota Essence product.
Rooted in Mexican traditions, Veronika draws on herbs, plants, and healing remedies to create all-natural, small-batch products. Using ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and botanicals, Mi Sota Essence delivers handcrafted, premium wellness with care and intention.
Ranchera Familia: Cultivating Excellence in Hemp
Meet Sue Carlton, the Reina (Queen) of Hemp and the driving force behind Ranchera Familia. Notably, she is the first Latina in the U.S. to create hemp genetics. Sue’s passion for her work extends beyond farming – she embodies femininity, artistry, and a profound connection to the plant. Her dedication shines through in her community efforts, which include hosting women from around the world, leading local workshops, and speaking at cannabis and hemp events.
Ranchera Mamí, as Sue is affectionately known, is a trailblazing figure in the world of hemp cultivation. Located in Central Valley, California, Ranchera Familia brings you sun-grown, terpene-powered CBD flower with an unwavering commitment to beauty, intelligence, artistic creation, ambition, and high standards. They not only love what they grow; they love their community.
As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, let’s not only acknowledge the incredible achievements of these Latin-owned cannabis brands but also recognize the positive impact they are making on the industry and the communities they serve. Their stories remind us that the cannabis world is not just about products; it’s about people, empowerment, and celebration.
