Tahir Johnson started his career in the cannabis industry in 2019. His goal was to transition from a career in wealth management at SunTrust to a full-time cannabis business owner. His first attempt at applying for a license failed but set the tone for Tahir’s latest victory.
“In 2019, I was new to the industry and was a part of another [ownership] group. Back then I was a small minority owner and only had a 10% stake. This [most recent application] was my first time doing it fully on my own.”
Tahir has since gained a wealth of professional experience and has even scored a cannabis licensing application in another state. Johnson currently serves as Director of Social Equity and Inclusion at the US Cannabis Council & Marijuana Policy Project and hosts industry leaders on his weekly podcast, The Cannabis Diversity Report. Each experience opened more doors for Johnson as he prepared to apply for New Jersey’s latest application round.
His authentic track record as an advocate for equitable legislative policies turned out to be his secret weapon.
“Having the opportunity to be a part of the advocacy process from the beginning changed the game for me. Fighting for equity before laws were passed with advocates like Leo Bridgewater and Jessica Gonzalez to get low-cost applications, clear social equity designations, and no real estate requirements were all crucial provisions that leveled the playing field for Black and brown entrepreneurs including myself.”