Industry Leaders Honored at West Hollywood’s 'Influential Executives of Cannabis' Recognition Event

In partnership with Proven Media, RW Navis & Associates and mg Magazine, the leadership series celebrated executives shaping the future of the cannabis industry

PHOENIX, AZ, UNITED STATES, April 7, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ -- On the evening of March 17, 2026, the iconic E.P. & L.P. Rooftop & Restaurant in West Hollywood served as the backdrop for a prestigious gathering of the cannabis industry’s most impactful leaders.

Hosted by Proven Media, in collaboration with RW Navis & Associates and mg Magazine, the event officially recognized the West Hollywood cohort of The Most Influential Executives of Cannabis (IEC).

The IEC is a national leadership awards series designed to recognize a select group of executives whose leadership has advanced the professionalization, stability, and long-term trajectory of the cannabis industry. During the sunset reception, each honoree was presented with a trophy and an award certificate to commemorate their contributions to industry excellence, integrity, and stewardship.

The emerging industry, while facing price compression and other obstacles, is still growing and expected to expand this year. According to Whitney Economics, U.S. cannabis sales in 2026 are expected to increase to $30.5 billion, up 4.9% from 2025. The awards were designed to recognize those moving the industry forward.

“Many executive awards have become popularity contests, favoring those who campaign for votes and attention rather than commit to the work. We designed this recognition to be different and honor the executives who stay focused, put their heads down, and quietly build a stronger, more innovative, and sustainable industry,” said Kim Prince of Proven Media.

The West Hollywood honorees were selected by a panel of business experts based on their measurable impact and commitment to future-focused leadership. The 2026 West Hollywood IEC Honorees include:

Mishka Ashbel, MMD Shops
Slava Ashbel, MMD Shops
Fred Barnum, Phinest Cannabis
Angela Cheng, Sunderstorm
Cameron Clarke, Sunderstorm
Charlie Copelan, CBIS Capital
Whitney Conroy, Phylos
Lauren Carpenter, Embarc
Rocco Del Priore, Sweed
Patrik Eriksson, Futurola
Lauren Fontein, The Artist Tree Cannabis
James Gates, PuffCO
Andrew Hagstrom, Weedmaps
Marty Higgins, Urbana
Jennifer Hill, Cannaivaz
Laurie Holcomb, Gramlin
Angela Hochberger, IMA Financial Services
Jo Jacobson, Rove
Howard Lee, SōRSE
Kim McNab, Canopy USA
Toby Skard, Futurola
Skyler Sutton, Mammoth Distribution
Barry Walker, Dub Bros / Tradecraft Farms
Shahar Yamay, Hefestus

“The evening was about meaningful connection and recognizing the people who are building the infrastructure and integrity our industry needs to thrive long-term. Many of these honorees represent the gold standard of executive leadership in Southern California,” said Angela Hochberger of IMA Financial.

All regional honorees are entered into consideration for the national IEC awards to be held in Las Vegas during MJBizCon week in December, 2026.

The 2026 IEC awards tour continues with upcoming stops in Paradise Valley, Arizona on May 28, Chicago on June 13, and Las Vegas on December 1.

To nominate an executive for an upcoming region or to learn more about the program, visit Proven Media.

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About Proven Media
Proven Media is a full-service, national public relations firm serving highly regulated industries. Founded by Kim Pravlis-Prince in 2014, the firm provides strategic PR and marketing services to guide new and emerging companies, brands, and executives as they grow and succeed in a rapidly changing market. Called Star Makers by NV Magazine, named a Top PR Firm by the Business Journal, and recognized as a Top 5 Most Powerful PR Firm by the Observer, Proven Media is committed to elevating the voices of rising leaders nationwide. To learn more, visit provenmedia.com.

About CannaPac
CannaPac is a curated executive network and event series founded by cannabis executive recruiter Ray Navis. CannaPac hosts invitation-only gatherings designed to foster meaningful business connections, mentorship, and high-level collaboration among C-suite senior leaders and founders. By hosting events across major cannabis markets, CannaPac brings the right executives into the room to support long-term industry growth, leadership development, and strategic alignment. To learn more, visit thecannapac.com.

About mg Magazine
mg Magazine is a premier trade publication dedicated to covering the business of legal cannabis. Serving industry executives, entrepreneurs, and operators nationwide, mg provides in-depth reporting, expert analysis, and practical insights across cultivation, manufacturing, retail, branding, regulation, and emerging trends. Through its digital content, newsletters, and events, mg Magazine informs and connects the leaders driving growth and professionalization within the cannabis industry. To learn more, visit mgmagazine.com.

Kim Prince
Proven Media
+1 480-221-7995
email us here

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