Explore your sign’s 2024 horoscope predictions to learn what is in store for you this year in love, career, and more. Check out the love compatibility of each sign to learn more about zodiac pairings and all things compatibility.
January is a groundbreaking month of surprises, challenges, and triumphs. The year begins with Mercury going direct on January 1, signifying a sense of ease and a new beginning that this year is bringing. With less fog and more clarity, less control, and more flow, anything is possible for you as the year begins, and January is ushering in this positive fresh start. After the intense and enlightening year that 2023 was, this year is starting on a determined tone, and there is a lot to look forward to this year.
On Jan. 4, Mars enters Capricorn, and this is a good time to set up financial goals and plans for yourself for the year and to think more logically here. Mars in Capricorn is ambitious, and this will be a good month to follow through on New Year's resolution, as you will be feeling more empowered to do so. On Jan. 11, the first New Moon of the new year occurs, and this is a New Moon in Capricorn.
Setting intentions is even more potent right now, and what you are manifesting right now will ripple into the rest of this year. This New Moon is all about defining what you want and standing by it. Mercury then moves into Capricorn on Jan. 13, forming a stellium in this earth sign.
With all of this Capricorn energy, as the year begins, there is a certain determination and resilience that this month is bringing in.
What January 2024 Has In Store For Your Zodiac Sign
Aquarius Season begins on Jan. 20, and determination turns into inspiration. While the Sun is in Aquarius, your community becomes more prominent, and the focus is on friendships, support systems, and soulmates. This Aquarius Season is all about thinking things thoroughly, claiming your victories, and supporting those who have been there with you along the way. Pluto also moves into Aquarius on Jan. 20, signifying that what’s changing now is not only happening on a personal level but a collective one as well. There is a sense of not only things and experiences coming together this month but people coming together as well.
Venus moves into Capricorn on Jan. 23, and Venus in Capricorn takes its time with love and enjoys every moment of it. The best of the best is the priority for Venus in Capricorn, and she doesn’t mind working for what she wants. This energy is bringing a groundedness to relationships, but also a little more pressure to deliver or provide.
The Full Moon of the month is happening in Leo and will be on Jan. 25, bringing in some fire sign energy before the month ends. This Full Moon is about putting yourself out there unapologetically and letting go of anything that keeps you further from yourself.
The end of January settles into a nice flow as Uranus goes direct after being retrograde since August 28, 2023. With Uranus in Taurus now direct, there is less unsettledness in the air, especially when it comes to love, romance, and finances. Uranus now direct brings a certain type of spontaneity back into the world, and one that brings a pleasant type of excitement rather than an unexpected hindrance.
Overall, January is bringing things back into order and providing a new sense of abundance in replace of change.
ARIES
January begins, and you are focused on your goals and priorities. You have your vision and your plans, and nothing is getting in the way of the future you see for yourself this year. The month begins with the Sun in your 10th house of career, and you are thinking a lot about the legacy you want to leave right now. However, your guidance is to not rush your process or progress this month and to take time with the developments and healing that are taking place for you right now.
Mars enters your 10th house on Jan. 4, where a lot of the energy of the month is for you, and you have the passion and energy to see things through. There is a shift in energy taking place for you this month, and at times, it may feel overwhelming, so be kinder to yourself in the process. At the end of the month, there is a Full Moon in fellow fire sign Leo, and this is ushering in some positive and fortunate energy in your life. You are leaving January in a romantic and hopeful tone, Aries.
TAURUS
This month is a time of change and perspective, Taurus. You are moving in a new direction in life and are ready to experience more abundance and clarity, but may need some time to get there. It’s all about the way you are looking at things right now, and the New Moon on Jan. 11 is a good time to set your intentions for that. The beginning of the month is eye-opening, and it’s up to you to decide what to do with the information you have gained.
On Jan. 23, Venus enters your 9th house, and you could be doing some traveling this month. This is a good time to adventure with a loved one, do things differently, and ask for spiritual guidance in your life. There is an awakening happening in your life this month, and there is some unexpectedness here. The most impactful transit of the month for you, however, is Uranus going direct in your sign on Jan. 27, after being retrograde since Aug. 2023.
This is a huge relief for you, and you can expect more stability and exciting opportunities in your life now.
GEMINI
Wishes are coming true for this month, Gemini. There is good energy flowing through your life as the year begins, and you are still in celebration mode from the successes that occurred for you at the end of last year. With the Sun and most of the energy in your 8th house of rebirth this month, you are feeling a freedom and connection in your life like never before. January is an inspiring time for you, and you are emotionally moving through some successes now.
Mercury, your ruling planet, enters Capricorn on Jan. 13, and moves into your 8th house as well. This is creating a spiritual awakening in your life and your close relationships. You are seeing clearly how putting in the work has favored you, and are experiencing the fruition that comes with emotional growth. Before the month ends, there is a Full Moon in your house of communication, and you are getting your message across now. Self-expression is everything to you, and you are getting the feedback you have been looking for here at the end of the month.
CANCER
Life is coming to fruition for you in January, Cancer. There is a sense of ease with you as you enter the new year, as you have claimed your peace and owned your power. You are trusting where life is and where life can still go for you, and are focused on your inner happiness right now. With the New Moon and most of the energy of the month in your 7th house of love, you are feeling this energy in your life and also sharing it. January is all about balance between your personal growth and the needs and wants of your relationships as well.
With all of the synergy that is flowing in your life this month, you are seeing relationship matters come full circle. Your heart is with your people, and you are rising above any past complications that disrupted your peace. On Jan. 27, Uranus goes direct, and this is even more energy that is favoring your relationships with others. With Uranus now direct, your friendships and community become more stable for you, and you may be meeting some new, exciting people in the process.
LEO
January is all about your inspirations, Leo. This is a powerful month for you and a month where you are encouraged to get creative and be courageous. You may have more on your plate this month than usual, but you have the right perspective and plan to follow through. Work matters are also more pressing for you now, and this is setting the tone for the accomplishments you are set to make this year.
Venus enters your 6th house of health, work, and daily routines on Jan. 23, and single Leos may find a new romance brewing in the workplace. Taken Leo’s will find their heart in their daily life, health, and well-being, and will be inspiring their partners with this energy as well. It’s all about working together with the people around you and making something better than it was this month. The Full Moon of January is in your sign on Jan. 25, and this Full Moon is when you are feeling the closure of the past year. You are letting go of old habits and beliefs, and owning your new ones.
VIRGO
January is a time of abundance, self-resilience, and fruition for you, Virgo. You are experiencing a breakthrough in your life, and financially you are allowing the blessings to enter. This is a month to break from self-imposed limitations and to trust that you are worthy of all you have gained and the future successes you will be taking in. With the energy of the month in your 5th house of romance as well, you are feeling more encouraged to be yourself, to love, and to be loved.
On Jan. 11, there is a New Moon in Capricorn and in your 5th house, and this is a good time to set your intentions for love. Don’t just think about what you want; feel it, grasp it, and go into your heart space to take in how it would truly feel to receive your desires in life. By the end of the month, Uranus goes direct in your 9th house of travel, adventure, and spirituality, and you could have some spontaneous trips or adventures to embark on as you leave the month.
LIBRA
This month is about finding your strength, Libra. You have been on a personal journey of growth and balance, yet have felt emotionally heavy at times in the process. The support in your life has been there, but it’s still been difficult to grasp your own inner power. This month is about accepting what’s been and choosing your strength instead of your fear. With the energy of the month in an area of your chart having to do with family and the home, this is a good time to spend more time in your safe spaces.
Venus, your ruling planet, will be in your 4th house for most of the month as well, and your heart is really where the home is right now. This is a good time to spruce up the home, move things around, decorate, and bring in some new energy to your environment as the new year begins. On Jan. 25, there is a Full Moon in your 11th house of hopes and dreams, and the blessings you were counting on in the past, are coming in for you now.
SCORPIO
January is all about standing your ground and protecting your energy, Scorpio. You are walking into the new year needing some time to process what has been and to decide on where you go from here. You are no longer willing to be pulled in so many different directions and are focused on your priorities and your peace of mind right now. When things feel pressing for you this month: create art, meditate, and get some quiet time alone. With a lot of the energy in your 3rd house of the mind in January, you need all the time and space to clear your head.
On Jan. 11, there is a New Moon in Capricorn, and this New Moon is about remaining hopeful, and awakening to a new mindset. You are taking your communications, beliefs, and connections more seriously, and are directing your power toward your message. On Jan. 27, Uranus finally goes direct in Taurus, your opposite sign, and this is good news for romance, finances, and your one-on-one relationships. You are leaving January with more pleasurable experiences in your love life and with less doubt about your stability and security here.
SAGITTARIUS
January is a month of collaboration, connection, and creation for you, Sagittarius. You are focused on your relationships, your people, and the connections you are looking to make this year- and maybe meeting some new people to help you get there. You have your eyes and heart open, and this is an inspiring time for you to create something beautiful. With Mercury going direct in your sign on Jan. 1 as the month begins, you are entering the year with a sense of personal clarity that is attracting like-minded souls and love into your life.
With the Sun in your 2nd house of finances for most of the month, this is a good time to focus on your growth and priorities here and to plan for the future. The New Moon in this area of your chart on the 11th is a good time to set your intentions for abundance. Before the month ends, there is a Full Moon in fellow fire sign Leo, and you are gaining the wisdom from the adventures you have been on and the lessons you have learned as of late.
CAPRICORN
The light is on you this month, Capricorn. So much of the energy in January is happening in your sign, and this is something to say about the powerful year ahead for you. The month begins with the Sun and Pluto in your sign, and Mars, the planet of direction and action, entering here on Jan. 4. A lot is going on in your life, and this is transforming things personally for you. If you can take the wins with the losses, and find your balance in what is becoming clearer to you now, you can use your will and passion toward intentional action rather than fear-based. January is the time when you are working on letting go, honoring the heart, and listening to the messages of your soul.
The New Moon of the month is on the 11th and is in your sign. This is a powerful day of manifestation for you and a time to think big. Mercury moves back into your sign from Jan. 13 until Feb. 5, and this brings clear energy into your communications with others. Before the month ends, Venus enters Capricorn on Jan. 23, and some of the uneasiness you were feeling emotionally at the beginning of the month is shifting for you, and you will be feeling more ease and dedication in love.
AQUARIUS
January is all about honoring your time and energy and speaking from the heart, Aquarius. The Sun is in your 12th house for most of the month before it enters your sign, and you are moving through a transition in your life, letting go of your perspective of what was, and seeing things clearer. The New Moon on the 11th will be in this area of your house as well, and this is a good time to set your intentions for the healing in your life and to allow your heart time to reflect and renew.
Aquarius Season officially begins on Jan. 20, and it is your time to shine and thrive. You are walking into this season feeling especially empowered, with Pluto entering back into your sign on the same day as well. With Pluto and the Sun now in your sign, it’s about choosing yourself right now, and about loving yourself through this process of growth you are in. Remember what a powerhouse you are this month.
PISCES
January is about exploring your options and opening your mind to love. There is a lot of movement in your life this month, but you are also doing a lot of contemplating on the new doors that are opening for you now. Make decisions from the heart and the head, and balance your need for clarity with your desire for hope. The New Moon on Jan. 11 will be happening in an area of your chart having to do with manifestation, and this is a good time to dream up some new blessings in your life.
Before the month ends, Venus will be in this manifestation house as well, and you are leaving January walking on more solid ground in love after the journey you were moving through at the beginning of the month of contemplation. The Full Moon on Jan. 25 shifts the focus to your work life, and this is a good time to experience a breakthrough in the workplace. Find balance between everything you want to juggle this month and choose what matters most to you now, Pisces.
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Tayler Barakat is a Mystic who has studied Astrology for over a decade. She does intuitive astrology and tarot readings for people all over the world, and her work focuses on healing and empowering individuals. Follow her on Instagram @taylerbarakat_ and check out her website www.listentothevirgo.com.
We have less than 40 days left in 2024, and while I'm not one to rush goals just because it's the end of the year, it can be fun to challenge yourself to think about ways you'll close out this year big.
Whether you're planning to meet a certain financial or fitness goal, or you're simply trying to maintain and build on the progress you made this year, having something to look forward to is always a good look. Setting actual goals, according to research, actually leads to more success than just playing things by ear. So here are a few to get you started, sis:
(Disclaimer: Not everything is for everyone, so do like my Granny always says: "Eat the meat. Spit out the bone." Take on five out of the 40 and focus on that for the remainder of the year, or do them all. Either way, this is just to get you started.)
40 Ways To End The Year Strong and Inspired
Money Moves
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1. Increase your retirement (or other savings/investment) contributions by 1%.
Experts have found that you could be leaving money on the table by not upping your contributions when you can.
2. Cancel two to five subscriptions.
You could be missing hundreds, even thousands, of dollars a year due to sneaky price hikes and "updates."
3. Create a "fun" in a high-yield savings account.
This is especially important if you struggle with the dreaded b-word (budget) and will make next year's efforts a lot less intimidating. Even if it's $10 a month, do it.
4. Put on your big-girl panties, and set up automatic transfers and payments for at least one bill.
It reduces the stress of managing bills, lessens the chance of a missed payment---and the fees that come with that---and there can be cost savings for doing so.
5. Invest in a cleaner or housekeeping service.
Bosses who value their time (and mental health) invest their dollars into areas where the time they'd spend doing those tasks themselves could be better used to focus on other money-making projects. (And yes, rest is part of that.) Get a housekeeper, sis, or drop off that laundry, even if it's once per month.
6. Donate to a charity.
Beyond the tax benefits, it's a win-win for the greater good of communities you care about.
7. Review your insurance policies and negotiate a better rate (or move on) before their end dates.
Experts often agree this is a small but mighty step to take each year, especially since insurance rates are competitive, you could be spending more money than you need to (or not enough) and your insurance rates can affect your mortgage payments.
8. Call your loan provider and refinance.
As interest rates fall, “millions of borrowers may be able to refinance and get more affordable payments. As interest rates eased down to 6.5%, about 2.5 million borrowers could already refinance and save at least 75 basis points (0.75%) on their interest rate,” the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau reports. You can also refinance student and other types of loans.
9. Stop buying individual items and stock up via going bulk.
Research has found that, among 30 common products, buying in bulk could save you 27% compared with buying in lower quantities. Water, paper products, and baby products like diapers, toiletries, and garbage bags are the top items where people see the most cost-effectiveness. (This has been a lifesaver for me—children, large family, or not—especially when it comes to toothpaste, deodorant, toilet paper, and feminine hygiene products, saving stress, time, and money.)
10. Go cash-only for the holidays.
If you set smart goals and stick to limits on things like gifts, going out to eat, or groceries, you'll see the benefits of this. Cash-stuffing is one method recommended, but something as simple as taking a $10 bill out for lunch, disabling that card for an hour, and leaving your card in a safe place at the office can give you that mindset jump start to see how far you can take your money without the need to splurge.
Love And Romance
11. Say "no."
There are clear mental and physical health benefits to saying no including the setting of healthy boundaries, creating time and energy for other self-care activities, and protecting yourself from physically harmful situations (i.e. unprotected sex or abuse). Just say it, clearly and simply, when you need to.
12. Set a fun, free, adults-only date night for once a week or twice a month with your spouse.
If busy, high-profile folk have touted the success of this, even you can make the time for quality time with your partner. And it's even better when it costs nothing. The best connections are made doing something chill, challenging, or outside the usual dinner-and-a-movie date. Play a game that allows you to reconnect, take a walk in your neighborhood to chat and laugh, or try a little erotic chocolate/edible liquid/paint episode a la Mea Culpa.
13. Go out with Mr. or Ms. "Not My Type."
I love my man, but if I were waiting out for my "type" at the time, we wouldn't be celebrating seven (going on eight) years together. Sometimes having strict, unrealistic expectations for a spouse (especially related to things like height, physical features, or career path) is what's keeping you alone and lonely.
Take the pressure off and explore all your options. I'm not telling you to stop popping the balloon on the guy who earns $20,000 less than you if that's a hard no that Jesus himself told you to skip. I'm asking you to explore other options and see what else God might have out there for your love journey.
14. Immediately apologize and pray together.
I've learned that always being "right" isn't always ideal when you truly care about someone and you're in a relationship for the long haul. Defaulting to an apology when necessary, even when things aren't 100% resolved, is a good way to prioritize peace and save your energy for more worthwhile battles. Research has even supported the benefits of apologies in relationships, and how couples married for five or more years do it often.
15. Get a Rose and discover true self-love.
Do I really have to explain this? You've gotta know what satisfies you, and how better to figure that out than to practice self-love in the bed by yourself? You can also try this with a partner, but as a woman who got on this train very much later in my sexual activity journey. I have a lot more learning to do on my own, and even in a satisfying relationship, I like to find out new things about myself, by myself.
Figure out what you're into, watch what you want to watch, and read what you want to read to define pleasure for yourself. There's a freedom and empowering element there especially if you're used to prioritizing pleasing your partner.
16. Be direct and have the "money talk" with bae.
Money issues are one of the leading causes of divorce, so you need to have those conversations before you even think about marrying someone. And true, nobody can predict the future so you won't be able to avoid some challenges altogether, however, talking with your potential spouse about how they view money, their spending habits, and the pain points in terms of their approach to money management can at least give you a glimpse into what's in store if you do walk down the aisle, move in with them, or decide to share a bank account/business/child with them.
17. Invest in the "paid" version of that dating app.
I know plenty of successful, married folk who did this and met "the one" as a result. Let's be honest: The free version is for playing around. I had a lot of fun with my "free" profile back in the day, trust me. Upgrade that photo, profile, and package, and see if the quality of your dating adventures changes when you're serious about finding a true partner. Dating coaches and matchmakers cosign this.
18. Solo travel to meet that long-distance connection.
Sometimes, your perfect match isn't within 100 miles of you, and that's okay. Make it an adventure, enjoy the memories, and book that ticket. I met my man this way and it's been a whirlwind escape ever since. If you're not comfortable traveling solo, travel or (network to plan travel) with a group via Facebook.
Career And Business
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19. Schedule coffee or virtual meetups with smart people from your graduating class, previous employer, or current employer.
I have gotten many freelance opportunities by doing this. It's as simple as connecting and offering value (or simply learning how you can better equip yourself to do so.) It's also a great way to expand your network, spark new friendships, or find out about new job opportunities.
20. Invest in a well-made suit.
I don't care what industry you're in, a suit says "power," and it's not as old-school or out-of-style as you'd think. Plus the whole experience of looking for a new one (or getting one tailored) is fun and affirming. Try these options. I swear, anytime I wear a blazer, I'm treated like a celebrity or boss, especially when traveling. I was once upgraded to first-class wearing a yellow blazer outfit, and the airline professional literally said, "You look like somebody important. Here you go."
21. Volunteer for a worthwhile project or cause that's important to your company.
If you're overworked and underappreciated, skip this one, but if you truly have the time, love what you do, and want to advance, this move is clutch. Volunteering for extra projects got me where I am today in media because I had foresight, and knew that was the only way at the time to leverage relationships, and I was able to challenge myself to learn skills that 20 years later are still bankable. That VP you can't get a meeting with will be at that gala your company is planning, so join that committee, sis.
22. Write down why you deserve a raise and ask for it in your next one-on-one.
Gather those receipts (ie sales increase numbers, KPIs met, deals closed, people acquired via recruitment, the impact of systems updates, or other tangible success metrics) and ask for that raise before the first or second-quarter budgets are being finalized.
23. Instead of quitting, write down your exit plan.
While revenge quitting is set to be a thing next year (and maybe you're among those who will be leading the trend), try the better boss move and quit with a real plan.
24. Start automatically separating that estimated self-employed quarterly tax estimate.
If you have side hustles (or you're collecting 1099 income,) baby, you do not want to neglect those quarter tax payments. Talk to a professional, do your research, and set up automatic transfers to an account specifically for paying these at the appropriate due dates.
25. Sign up for a free one- to 11-week course related to your industry—or the industry you want to be in next year.
Institutions like Harvard University and platforms like Coursera offer free courses that can enhance your skills. You can also invest in certificate courses with accredited colleges as well as tech training.
26. Hit "Easy Apply" for 10 dream jobs listed on LinkedIn.
While you shouldn't solely rely on this when actively job-seeking, using this convenient LinkedIn option is a great way to get into the habit of applying for positions. And if you're already employed, you should still be "dating" other employers if you're looking to make a move in the next six months. Keep your interview skills sharp, practice toughening up for the "nos," and get a bit of an ego boost in the process.
Self-Care And Wellness
27. Pre-schedule three month's worth of massages.
Oftentimes this is cost-effective since some spas offer deals for multiple bookings. Also, it makes an act of self-care deliberate and important, not an option. When you get that reminder call, you'll know it's real.
28. Fire that therapist and try another one.
Cultural competency in mental health support is one major problem that can hinder Black women from even bothering with therapy. And who wants the added stress of spending multiple, paid sessions explaining why something is a microaggression? Cut the cord and move on to try someone else, either via a Black women therapists channel or recommendations from others.
29. Join a small group at church.
Bedside service ain't gonna cut it and neither is going to the usual Sunday service. Join a smaller group and upgrade your efforts to connect, network, and elevate spiritually. Even if virtually, take a step to dig a bit deeper with more targeted Bible study and discussions.
30. Say no, even to loved ones.
This is on here twice, for a reason. Saying no is the simplest, most powerful micro-action you can take today to make 2025 better. No explanations. No guilt. Say no.
31. Choose one "luxury" beauty product for skincare and stick to it.
This was trending big on social, especially for millennials hitting their 40s. There's just something so freeing about not giving in to every trend and sticking to the basics that work, especially when there are quality, healthy ingredients involved. Put those orders on auto-renew.
32. Sign up for a new sport or fitness class just for fun, not for results.
It's great to be on a weight-loss or weight-lifting journey, but try something just for the fun of it. Switch things up with a couple of these fitness activities.
33. Book a staycation.
Leave the passport at home and explore a nearby community or another town in your state. There's so much enrichment in your own backyard right here in the U.S., and you don't even have to break the bank.
34. Pre-schedule your mammograms, Pap smear, and peri-menopause checkups for next year.
Take control of your health by pre-scheduling essential appointments like mammograms, Pap smears, and peri-menopause check-ups for 2025. Prioritizing these screenings early ensures you stay on top of your wellness and make time for self-care in the new year.
35. Cut off support of beauty and wellness professionals whose customer service is below standard.
This is another one that many Black women have been vocal about—from unrealistic pre-appointment requirements, to booking fees, to long waits, to unsavory in-salon experiences. Spot the red flags early, and just stop accommodating foolishness. Support salons or experienced stylists who are kind, have proper systems in place and value your time.
36. Schedule five to 10-minute moments of silence on your calendar.
Again, wellness is not optional, and if it's not on my calendar, it's not official. Sit quietly. Pray. Meditate. Or do nothing. The benefits of silent moments are almost endless.
37. Download a meditation app.
If you've found that meditation is difficult to schedule or to even start, an app can help. Try this, this, or this one, and take that step to embrace something new to enhance your wellness routine. If you're tired of downloading apps, create a playlist for meditation via Amazon Music or Spotify and schedule a reminder to do it once a day or week.
38. Invest in a healthy meal prep or delivery service.
Time is emotionally expensive, so save as much of it as possible. Getting into meal prep to keep to your goals is a great way to save time, stress, and effort. The health benefits of meal prepping have also been proven via research.
39. Create a positive playlist on Spotify, Amazon Music, YouTube, or other streaming platform.
It can be podcasts, music, affirmations, or somatic sounds. It's a game-changer. You can even set an alarm to wake you up to start your day with the positive playlist. Not into creating your own? There are plenty to choose from with a quick search.
40. Set up reminders for Alexa (Siri or other AI) to remind you, "You are loved," and "You are okay."
This simple effort can boost your endorphins and remind you that you're indeed, not alone, and you will be okay, regardless. To set mine up, I simply commanded, "Alexa, remind me everyday 'Jesus loves me,'" and like clockwork she does. She almost scared the ish out of me one day when I'd forgotten the reminder was active, but it was the reminder I needed when anxiety had gotten the best of me that week.
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High Achievers: Black Celebs Redefining The Cannabis Industry With Purpose
As an avid cannabis lover, I truly appreciate the magic of the flower.
I also believe it's crucial to create a space for Black women to fully participate in the cannabis industry. We need to empower Black women to not only consume cannabis but also to thrive as entrepreneurs. As the only demographic stigmatized for cannabis use, this inclusivity is essential.
According to FlowHub, cannabis will add $115.2 billion to the economy in 2024. Despite this growth, Black women remain significantly underrepresented in cannabis leadership roles. Data from MJBizDaily reveals that men own 80% of cannabis businesses. Furthermore, Black people constitute only 2% of cannabis company ownership nationwide.
With that said, we thought it was only right that we curate a list of Black celebrity-owned cannabis brands you can support. For many of these folks, the brands are designed to bridge cannabis culture with storytelling, creating space for underrepresented voices in the industry. They strive to use cannabis to cultivate creativity and promote equity within an industry that has disproportionately affected Black communities.
1.Lena Waithe
Lena Waithe launched First Draft, her first cannabis partnership and collaboration with entrepreneur Chris Ball’s Ball Family Farms. She told ESSENCE, “He’s so passionate about it—he invited me to his plant and I saw him in his element. And he said, ‘If we’re going to do business, you’ve got to get to know me.'” Soon after forming a friendship, the pair decided to collaborate on First Draft. This hybrid cannabis strain, released in Los Angeles stores last year, offers a fruity experience described as promoting calm, bliss, and creativity.
2.Method Man
Method Man created TICAL (Taking Into Consideration All Lives) as a cannabis brand rooted in social justice. Recognizing the racial disparities in the cannabis industry, TICAL partners with Black-owned dispensaries and highlights quality products while advocating for equity. His efforts aim to dismantle stigma and create opportunities for communities of color.
3.Jay-Z
Jay-Z debuted Monogram in 2020, presenting a luxury cannabis line under the parent company The Parent Company, where he serves as Chief Visionary Officer. Focused on high-end products, Monogram offers artisanal cannabis curated by experts. Despite its premium positioning, the brand has faced financial challenges in a volatile market, reflecting the difficulties of scaling even with a superstar founder. Amid reports of a $575 million loss breaking early this month, it has since been reported that Jay-Z is no longer tied to the luxury weed line.
4.The Game
The Game co-founded Trees by Game, a cannabis lifestyle brand offering a range of premium products from flowers to concentrates. Known for blending his West Coast roots and entrepreneurial drive, The Game positions his brand as an authentic voice in the cannabis space. His involvement underscores the intersection of hip-hop and cannabis culture.
5.Jaleel White
Known for his role as Steve Urkel, Jaleel White ventured into cannabis with ItsPurpl, a collaboration with 710 Labs. Specializing in Purple Urkle strains, his brand merges nostalgia with premium-quality cannabis, catering to aficionados and new consumers alike. ItsPurpl reflects White’s commitment to authenticity and innovation.
6.Al Harrington
Former NBA player Al Harrington founded Viola, a cannabis company named after his grandmother. Viola champions Black ownership in the cannabis industry while producing premium products. Harrington also prioritizes social equity, advocating for criminal justice reform and creating pathways for minority entrepreneurs.
7.Whoopi Goldberg
Whoopi Goldberg co-created Whoopi & Maya, a cannabis line focused on alleviating menstrual pain and other conditions affecting women’s health. Although the company has since ceased operations, Goldberg’s venture was groundbreaking in addressing women’s needs in a male-dominated cannabis market, highlighting the plant’s medicinal benefits.
The EGOT winner and co-host of The View, is expanding her cannabis business. Under the WhoopFam umbrella, she has a new brand and is revamping Whoopi & Maya. Emma & Clyde, named for Goldberg's late mother and brother, was initially launched in 2022 with a limited Arizona run. The brand is now expanding to select stores in California, Arizona, and Ohio. It offers a range of products for both medical and recreational users, including edibles, pre-rolls, flowers, and accessories.
8.Lil Wayne
GKUA Ultra Premium, launched by Lil Wayne, focuses on high-end cannabis. The brand is a cultural extension of his creativity and artistry, blending music and cannabis culture. He told Forbes, “I used to just want to get high, now I smoke to get inspired. With GKUA, I'm sharing a feeling that I love." The rapper’s Co-founder Beau Golob added, “The combination of our incredible products, market knowledge and commitment to quality, paired with the unmatched fanbase of Lil Wayne, the ultimate cannabis connoisseur, creates an unprecedented opportunity to create a cannabis brand that values creativity and the artistic pursuit.”
9.Ricky Williams
The former NFL star created Highsman, a cannabis lifestyle brand featuring strains tailored to sports themes like Pre-Game and Post-Game. Williams emphasizes wellness, integrating cannabis into mental and physical health practices.Highsman decided to merge with Frozen Fields and Abundant Labs. Ricky told Forbes, “To remain competitive and drive continued growth, we began exploring M&A opportunities about a year ago, seeking to integrate our brand into a scalable backend. After numerous discussions with potential acquirers and partners, we concluded that merging with Frozen Fields and Abundant Labs presented the strongest path forward.”
10.Damian Marley
As part of Evidence, Marley turned a former prison in California into a cannabis cultivation facility, highlighting his focus on social justice and high-quality cannabis. Locals pushed back against plans for a weed-growing facility in their area. “Educating a community that was conservative was not easy,” Dan Dalton, co-founder shared withForbes. “It was hard to convey that our cannabis wouldn’t hit their streets and drive crime. What we grow gets into trucks and leaves the town; the facility has no signage. And all this tax revenue is here for the town now. The first year we provided 100 jobs.”
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Featured image by Bryan Bedder/Getty Images