As we celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8th, it’s the perfect opportunity to recognize the remarkable women driving innovation, advocacy, and empowerment in the vaping industry. From visionary entrepreneurs to dedicated advocates, these women are shaping the future of vaping and fostering a more inclusive and diverse community.
In a field often dominated by male voices, it’s essential to highlight the significant contributions women are making in vaping. Whether pioneering product development, leading advocacy efforts, or championing inclusivity, these trailblazers are transforming the industry in meaningful ways. Join us in celebrating their inspiring stories and achievements as they leave an unforgettable mark on the vaping world.
Advocating for Change: Women’s Voices in Vaping Advocacy
Women have played an indispensable role in advocacy within the vaping industry, making profound contributions to the promotion of vaping as a tool for harm reduction and the ongoing battle against restrictive regulations; their efforts have been both impactful and far-reaching. Sarah Jakes, co-founder of The Pink Lung Brigade, stands as a prominent figure at the forefront of advocating for vaping rights, where she has consistently highlighted the critical need for accessible vaping products as a safer and viable alternative to traditional smoking.
Pamela Gorman, who serves as the Executive Director of the Smoke-Free Alternatives Trade Association (SFATA), has emerged as a passionate and vocal advocate, tirelessly working to champion sensible regulations that not only support harm reduction but also acknowledge the transformative potential of vaping in public health efforts. Similarly, Gina King, founder of the California Smoke-Free Organization, has been deeply engaged in numerous advocacy campaigns aimed at protecting smokers’ rights while ensuring access to innovative, smoke-free alternatives such as vaping.
In the United Kingdom, Samantha Chapman, co-founder of the UK Vaping Industry Association (UKVIA), has dedicated herself to promoting evidence-based policies and regulatory frameworks that validate vaping as a crucial harm reduction strategy; her efforts underscore the importance of aligning regulations with scientific understanding. Nancy Loucas, as the Executive Director of the Coalition of Asia Pacific Tobacco Harm Reduction Advocates (CAPHRA), has devoted her advocacy to advancing the rights of vapers and ensuring access to safer smoking alternatives across the Asia-Pacific region, navigating complex cultural and regulatory landscapes.
Together, these trailblazing women have significantly shaped the discourse surrounding vaping; they continue to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their health while advocating for policies that reflect the undeniable benefits of harm reduction strategies within a global context.
Empowering Others: Women in Vaping Entrepreneurship and Mentorship
Women entrepreneurs have made remarkable contributions to the vaping industry, driving innovation and shaping its evolution.
- Heather Sanders, co-founder of Juicy Vapor, was a trailblazer in establishing one of the first e-liquid manufacturers in the United States. Her efforts expanded product offerings and helped solidify the company’s position in the market.
- Christina Lake, founder and CEO of Christina Lake Cannabis Corp., has made significant strides in the cannabis vaping sector by producing high-quality vape cartridges and other cannabis products.
- Cheryl Richter, founder and CEO of Liquid Barn, has been a key figure in supporting the DIY vaping community by providing e-liquid ingredients and DIY vape juice kits tailored to their needs.
- Kimberly Kovacs, co-founder and CEO of Myvaporstore.com, has successfully grown one of the largest online vaping product retailers in the U.S., skillfully navigating regulatory challenges while serving the vaping community.
- Becky Plizak, co-founder of Mech Sauce, has played an essential role in product development, marketing, and customer relations for a company celebrated for its affordable and flavorful vape juices.
- Kate Wang, founder of RLX, has achieved phenomenal success with her brand, a leading e-cigarette company in China, showcasing the innovation and entrepreneurial spirit that drive the industry forward.
Breaking Barriers: Women Leading the Charge in Consumer Activism
Women have played a vital role in consumer activism within the vaping industry, advocating for vapers’ rights and ensuring access to harm reduction alternatives.
- Brittani Cushman has been a dedicated vaping advocate, actively participating in campaigns to promote vaping as a harm reduction tool while opposing restrictive regulations.
- Lindsey Stroud, a fellow at the Taxpayers Protection Alliance, has worked to advance sensible vaping policies and increase awareness of vaping’s benefits as a harm reduction strategy.
- Michelle Minton, a senior fellow at the Competitive Enterprise Institute (CEI), has championed vaping rights through advocacy and extensive writing, focusing on protecting consumer access to vaping products.
- Teresa Ambroz, co-founder of the Wisconsin Vapers Alliance, has taken grassroots action by organizing rallies, lobbying lawmakers, and raising awareness about vaping issues in Wisconsin.
- Victoria Vasconcello has been a prominent advocate and consumer activist, contributing to the movement by organizing vaping events, participating in campaigns, and highlighting vaping as a harm reduction tool.
The Future is Female: Shaping the Future of Vaping
Looking to the future, it’s clear that women will remain central to shaping the vaping industry’s evolution. Their passion, resilience, and determination drive innovation, strengthen advocacy efforts, and build a more inclusive and welcoming community for vapers from all walks of life. By celebrating and uplifting their contributions, we can foster a more equitable and dynamic ecosystem that benefits everyone.
The vaping industry’s success and progress owe much to the remarkable women leading the way and making a difference every day. Their creativity, advocacy, and leadership are not only shaping the future of vaping but also inspiring others to embrace safer and more enjoyable alternatives to smoking. Let’s continue to honor and support their invaluable contributions, ensuring their voices are heard and their achievements celebrated.
