As a part of our upcoming Diversity Education Discussions with MARY Mag, we’re going to be highlighting some words from our speakers to keep you satiated until January 18th.
Chris Ball of Ball Family Farms
What led you to launch your brand?
CB: What led me to launch my brand was my passion for growing quality cannabis and creating generational wealth for my family.
Why is diversity and inclusion across the cannabis industry important to you?
CB: Diversity and inclusion across the space are crucial because cannabis culture is a universal language, made up of individuals from all walks of life. And for this culture to survive, all of those diverse people must be present and participate in our growing industry.
How is cannabis connected to your life?
CB: Many ways, too many ways to mention them all, but the most important is that cannabis is LIFE for my family and me now. With the success of BALL FAMILY FARMS, it’s the way we put food on the table. It allows us to pay our bills. It’s the way we give back to our community and culture. Finally, it has given me a voice that not only reaches my local neighborhood and culture here in Los Angeles but is now making my voice heard nationwide.
What would you say most motivates you to do what you do?
CB: What motivates me to continue what I’m doing – pure passion and love for growing the best flowers on planet earth. Another great motivation is seeing friends and family I’ve employed through my company THRIVE and becoming equally passionate about the cannabis industry. Finally, my sense of urgency to protect our beloved industry from big pharma and suits trying to water it down and take it away from traditional operators, like myself, stopping us from educating young enthusiastic business owners to keep the culture thriving.
With this discussion being on MLK Day 2021, discuss the importance of Martin Luther King Jr.’s impact in your life OR share your favorite MLK quote.
CB: My favorite quote from Dr. King as it pertains to where I am today, and BALL FAMILY FARMS, is “Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.” When I sold my first ounce of weed at 16 years old, I could not see nor would I have ever imagined 26 years later, I would be in the position I am today. I am here because of pure passion, relentless dedication, and FAITH.
