Economic Empowerment and Ownership: Insights on entrepreneurship, product development, and ownership specifically tailored for women of color in the cannabis space.
Mental Health and Cannabis: Addressing mental health awareness, reducing stigma, and exploring the role of cannabis in managing stress, anxiety, and trauma. Personal experiences and research-based insights will be shared.
Collaboration and Networking: Highlighting the importance of collaboration among minority-owned businesses, advocacy groups, and industry leaders. The discussion will emphasize how networking can lead to mentorship, partnerships, and shared success.
Calandra Revering, Attorney/Owner, The Good Zen
Calandra Revering, Esq.
Calandra is an accomplished attorney and justice advocate with over 22 years of experience in private
practice. She specializes in Criminal Defense, Family Law, Civil and Family Mediation, and conducting
neutral workplace employment investigations. In addition, she is a sought-after speaker on social equity
in Cannabis Law, actively engaging with public and political audiences on cannabis legislation and policy.
Recognized for her courtroom expertise, Calandra has successfully tried numerous high-profile criminal
cases in State and Federal Courts, thriving on the dynamic challenges of jury trials. She approaches her
work with dedication, patience, and open-mindedness, steadfastly advocating for equality, respect, and
justice for all community members. Practicing in courts across and beyond the Twin Cities, she brings a
comprehensive understanding of the interplay between law, facts, and cultural context.
Since 2002, Calandra has expanded her impact beyond private practice. She has served as an adjunct
professor, teaching legal courses, trial advocacy, and master’s-level classes in international politics and
law. She has also presented numerous CLE seminars on topics ranging from DWI practice to diversity in
the legal profession.
In addition to her legal career, Calandra is the owner of Good Zen, a dispensary located in Brooklyn Park,
and the co-founder of SLAY Beverage, a THC elixir brand created in partnership with her son. Both
ventures are dedicated to supporting minority and LGBTQ+ communities. She is the founder of CUJI-
Communities Unifying Thru Justice & Inclusion and Minnesota Association for Black Cannabis
Professionals (MABCP).
Her passions include mentoring law students and young attorneys, advocating for juvenile justice,
fostering entrepreneurship, and improving access to justice for underserved communities. Calandra is
deeply committed to ensuring equal and fair treatment for all, both within and beyond the courtroom.
Nekima Levy Armstrong, Founder/CEO, Dope Roots
Nekima Levy Armstrong is the founder and CEO of Dope Roots, a Minnesota-based cannabis company that specializes in high quality, low-dose, hemp-derived edible products. Dope Roots offers canna butter, chocolate canna spread, infused desserts, gummies, and THC beverages. Nekima is also an award-winning civil rights lawyer, activist, and former law professor. She has written numerous articles about the impacts of the “war on drugs” on Black and Brown communities. Nekima is also the co-founder of the Dope Roots Social Equity Club which focuses on supporting Black women in the cannabis industry, advocating for an end to the “war on drugs”, and providing free and low cost cannabis products to women who are experiencing major health issues.
Veronika Alfaro
Veronika Alfaro, a first-generation Mexican American, embodies resilience and determination. As the
founder of Mi Sota Essence—the first Latina-owned cannabis company in Minnesota—she has shattered
glass ceilings and paved the way for others.
Veronika’s personal experience navigating the limitations of traditional Western medicine fueled her
passion for destigmatizing cannabis. She believes in its healing potential and advocates for its
acceptance. But her mission extends beyond business success.
Within the cannabis industry, Veronika actively creates space for Latinos. She knows firsthand the
importance of representation and inclusivity. Mi Sota Essence isn’t just about products; it’s about
community, education, and empowerment. Veronika’s advocacy work transcends labels. She promotes
mobility—both physical and metaphorical—by encouraging self-empowerment. Education becomes a
tool for change, movement a catalyst for growth, and cannabis a means of holistic well-being. Self-care,
too, is central to her philosophy.
Veronika Alfaro’s impact reverberates far beyond her personal story. She inspires others to embrace their
unique paths, break down barriers, and create positive change.