Tamara Anderson Transforms Cannabis Industry with Culinary & Cannabis

Tamara Anderson, founder of Culinary & Cannabis, is making waves in the cannabis industry by creating inclusive, healing spaces for people of color and the canna-curious. Her journey began with a desire to reform healthcare, driven by her experiences in the nursing and healthcare sectors, where she witnessed firsthand the limitations and detrimental effects of traditional pharmaceutical treatments. Anderson's unique approach combines her skills as a nurse and pastry chef to offer luxury cannabis wellness events that prioritize personal relationships with the plant over clinical protocols

Culinary & Cannabis, described by Anderson as an "all-sensory interactive cannabis event production company," diverges from typical cannabis businesses by focusing on creating environments that are both aesthetically pleasing and therapeutic. These events, which feature CBD massages, sound baths, and trauma-informed conversations, are designed to provide a safe space for attendees to explore cannabis without the stigma often associated with it. Anderson's events have attracted significant attention, with over 300 guests attending a recent Grammy Week CannaSpa, highlighting the demand for such inclusive and thoughtful spaces

Anderson's commitment to creating these spaces is deeply personal, rooted in her understanding of the historical and ongoing injustices faced by Black communities in relation to cannabis. The War on Drugs disproportionately targeted Black individuals, and Anderson is determined to address this legacy by building environments that welcome and support people of color. Her efforts are a direct response to the cannabis industry's slow progress in rectifying these injustices, as well as the superficial nature of many equity programs

Despite the challenges of being a Black woman in an industry that often marginalizes people of color, Anderson has succeeded by focusing on excellence and precision. Her background as a pastry chef, where precision is key, complements her approach to cannabis infusion and event production. Anderson's work is not only about providing a service but also about educating attendees on the science and history of cannabis, helping them develop a personal relationship with the plant

Looking ahead, Culinary & Cannabis is poised for expansion beyond Southern California, with plans to reach audiences in North America, the UK, Australia, and Asia. Anderson's vision of creating spaces that feel like "a hug to the community" continues to resonate, offering a stark contrast to the often impersonal healthcare and cannabis industries. Her mission to change how care is approached and delivered remains at the forefront of her work, as she builds spaces that prioritize healing and inclusion