We are a business & trade association of entrepreneurs, professionals, and enthusiasts interested in attaining equity and economic empowerment by way of ownership. Zealously advocating for equity in emerging Industries & markets. Providing valuable resources and creating connectivity that contributes to the creation of a more diverse ecosystem.

About S.E.E.N.™️

The Chicago Theater by Christian DeKnock

In 2018, a group of Social Equity entrepreneurs and residents of Illinois came together to discuss how we can enter the cannabis industry in the state. From those destined meetings, SEEN was born. A network that has been an unwavering tool to share useful information, resources, and events to assist in the application process. But designed to be a pillar of b the social equity business community among minority and small business owners.

In order to be supportive and inclusive of all social equity applicants and other disenfranchised and underrepresented entrepreneurs, the Black Canna Network decided to form an official 501c(6) trade association known as the Social Equity Empowerment Network (S.E.E.N.™).

We decided to build and leverage a trade association to offer specific skill-building workshops, preparation for ownership, critical discounts, and purchasing power for members from our communities. Ultimately, our goal is to become an impenetrable force and voice on behalf of Social Equity (SE) Applicants, Owners & Entrepreneurs in emerging agriculture industries.

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"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has."

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  • Founder, President , Chief Empowerment Officer;

    Belicia reigns from Chicago, IL which is where her tenacity for Diversity Equity and Inclusion work began. She currently oversees Risk Management for a Global Recycling & Renewable Energy firm where she is responsible for North American Operations. From Fortune 500 companies to various municipalities across the United States; she has encompassed over 20 years of Insurance and Risk Management experience. Infusing her profession and knowledge of the cannabis industry. She co-founded Vice Life Ventures becoming the "Vice Life Coach" which has enabled her to provide vital Risk, Insurance & Industry coaching to Social Equity entrepreneurs.

    In conjunction with her full-time position, she's also a zealous advocate, lobbyist, and licensee in the cannabis industry. Immersing herself in the industry she became overwhelmingly concerned with the State of Equitable opportunities in the cannabis industry. In 2018, her passion led her to create the Social Equity Empowerment Network known as S.E.E.N. A business/ trade association created to work earnestly against the disparities and inaccuracies of justice. Her work aims to ensure sustainability and equitable ownership in this emerging industry. As the Chief Empowerment Officer, she empowers equity advocacy across the country. As a voice for social equity, she remains at the forefront of the equity movement in the cannabis industry. Recently appointed to the board of the Minority Cannabis Business Association further expands her work to promote equity everywhere.

    global company and is passionate about True Equity in America, economic empowerment for marginalized communities, and providing resources for misguided youth.

  • National Director of Strategy;

    KJ Saffold has a unique combination of military and business expertise. After graduating from the United States Military Academy at West Point, KJ served in the US Army, earning distinctions in combat. KJ is continuing his education with an Executive MBA at the Georgia Institute of Technology. With a strong blend of executive leadership, strategic planning, security, distribution logistics, IT management, and proven operational excellence, KJ brings a valuable skill set and perspective to the cannabis industry.

    KJ was among 185 applicants selected from over 4,500 to receive a cannabis dispensary license in Illinois during the state's first-ever opportunity. In addition to his professional achievements, KJ is a fierce advocate for social justice, social equity, and veteran medicinal cannabis use. KJ is passionate about making a positive impact in the industry and is dedicated to advancing the field through innovation and collaboration.

  • Vice President, Legal and Compliance

    Carshena Ross is a native Chicagoan and graduate of Illinois State University, where she received a BS in Criminal Justice Sciences. She received her Juris Doctorate from DePaul University College of Law in 2002 and was admitted to the Illinois State Bar shortly thereafter.

    Carshena has focused her 15 years+ of law practice on Residential and Commercial real estate transactions and recently added Estate Planning and Probate as additional practice areas. In 2021, Carshena earned her Illinois Mortgage Loan Originator license and can provide financing for all types of Borrowers and all property types.

    Drawing on her years of experience/service in social work, law, and business operations, Carshena knows that developing and nurturing strong relationships are the anchors to success.

    The main goal is to ensure positive customer experiences in her real estate practice through transparency and a streamlined approach.

    Carshena is motivated daily by her faith and determination, keys to life supplied by her mother, Jewel, and two children, Aries and Lea. She enjoys staying fit, listening to music, traveling, and spending quality time with her family in her free time.

Executive Board