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Nova Scotian Cannabis Alliance meets neurodivergent cannabis PhDs

I was fortunate enough to be invited by Dr. Av Singh and the Nova Scotian Cannabis Alliance to their social event featuring pharmaceutical scientists and researchers Dr. Riley Kirk and Dr. Miyabe Shields.  Without question, this was one of the most memorable events I have attended in my entire cannabis career.

These two cannabis scientists provided an insight into cannabis from a perspective and research level I just hadn’t been exposed to in the past.  Not only are they doing new research in support of medical cannabis use they also have a unique ability to deliver their knowledge in a way which is more easily understood by anyone not just people who understand cannabis.

Their unique ability to make you feel normal, despite the overwhelming stigma of cannabis, was simple and elegant.

Equipped with real life data from their currently unpublished study on cannabis consumption, I was nothing short of impressed with the depth and quality of their knowledge.  I left their talk not only feeling educated, but also much more confident in my cannabis use being normal and well within the realm of normal consumption for neurodivergent individuals.  We should all be seriously looking forward to the future work of these two and all of the wonderful gifts they are giving to the cannabis industry through their non-profit – The Network of Applied Pharmacognosy.

Left to right, Miyabe Shields, Genevieve Newton, Riley Kirk. Photo: Av Singh

Following the wonderful presentation, industry seemed to smile and laugh and blend together like one.  There must have been 30 different growers from 30 facilities in one place all sharing, laughing and having a great time.  As well as growers, there were another 30-plus people like myself – vendors of equipment, software or “picks/shovels.”

The Maritimes are new to me in the last five years, but it is clear to me that community still runs strong in the east.  What a wonderful group of people to spend my Tuesday evening with.  We are so fortunate to be able to meet in one place and share stories and help each other out.

This was, without any hesitation, a five-star event.  Av, Riley and Miyabe, you are all legends, and I can’t wait to hear and see more of what comes next!