Despite the lack of Black entrepreneurs in the cannabis industry, Ariane Kirkpatrick remained determined.
According to WKCY-3, she entered the space officially in 2017.
Kirkpatrick expressed her determination to overcome the challenges that came with being a black woman in her field. “Despite facing barriers and obstacles, we decided to make it work, and we succeeded,” she said.
According to her LinkedIn profile, Kirkpatrick has held the position of CEO at various medical, cannabis cultivation, and dispensary firms, including Harvest Grows, Harvest of Ohio, and Harvest Processing. These companies had a presence in multiple Ohio cities, including Ironton, Beavercreek, Columbus, and Athens. Kirkpatrick’s primary goal was to create employment opportunities and promote economic growth in the marijuana industry, with the ultimate aim of improving people’s lives.
After Kirkpatrick’s business partner, Harvest Health and Recreation, was acquired by Trulieve, a national cannabis and marijuana provider, she encountered a significant obstacle and fell out with the company.
WKCY-3 recently interviewed Kirkpatrick regarding the acquisition of their company by Trulieve, the largest company in the United States. Kirkpatrick explained that they were not originally part of the partnership or ownership between Harvest and Trulieve.
In order to retain control of her share of the company, Kirkpatrick made the decision to appoint her sister, Amonica Davis, as the CEO. Eventually, in May of 2024, they were able to come to an agreement with Trulieve Cannabis Corp. which allowed them to operate independently. This information was disclosed in a press release.
Kirkpatrick shared with WKCY-3 that they decided to attend mediation and reached an agreement, which proved to be beneficial for both parties. As a result, they were able to finalize their divorce and are now content with the outcome.
The company that was previously owned by the siblings has undergone a name change and is now called Mavuno. The company currently runs a cannabis dispensary for adult-use in Athens.
Davis explained that the name of their company, Mavuno, is derived from the Swahili language and holds significant meaning. In Swahili, the term “Mavuno” translates to harvest, yield, and providing. This name aptly reflects both the company’s values and its status as a family-owned and operated business.
According to WKCY-3, Mavuno holds the distinction of being the initial cannabis enterprise in the state that is fully vertically integrated and owned by a Black woman.
Davis stated that the cannabis industry in the United States has less than 2% of people who resemble them as operators and owners. Therefore, being among the few pioneers in this emerging industry is a remarkable and unique experience.
They have plans to expand their reach and are enthusiastic about being trailblazers in their field.