Today we’d like to introduce you to Karina Vazcones.
Hi Karina, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
My journey began during the pandemic in the winter of 2020. I was working as a bud tender at a local dispensary when I became inspired to educate the public about cannabis in a fun, interactive way. I love educating people about the benefits of cannabis, the different strains, and terpenes profiles that ultimately determine the effects of each strain. So, I decided to make a game that would allow people learn the names of some of the many strains that exist and hopefully inspire them to learn more about cannabis on their own. I was also inspired by my Chicano culture to create my own version of Loteria, a game of bingo that I grew up playing with my family and friends. You can find me at local vendor markets selling my merch and game sets. Occasionally, you can find me hosting games at events I attend to show people how to play my game and give out prizes that include cannabis products. I also sell food sometimes on the weekends on 36th & J street.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road has been challenging but, overall, a great learning experience. I have learned the difficulty that comes with starting my own business. I’ve learned how to market myself and network within the community. But I also learned that in order to be successful, I have to make sacrifices and invest in myself. In addition to this, having a business that is cannabis and Chicano-themed has made it a bit difficult. I have introduced the game of Loteria to many that have never heard about the game, but also, not everyone consumes cannabis, so that in itself is another obstacle in marketing my brand.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I have been involved in the cannabis industry since 2014, and I’d like to say that I am known as a cannabis connoisseur. During my time in the industry, I have gained a lot of knowledge about the cannabis plant. I have always had a fascination for the science, and as I learned more about the plant, it helped me become a better budtender. I help people have fun and consume for recreational purposes. But I also help those that are looking for the medicinal benefits. That gives me more satisfaction to know that I am helping people with illnesses to relieve their pain or help with sleep with something natural. I am proud of myself for taking the risk and getting into the cannabis industry regardless of the social stigma. As someone that was raised on the belief that cannabis is a gateway drug and seen in such a negative light, I have been able to break the stereotype. I’m most proud that I have been able to educate my grandmother about cannabis, and she now has a different perspective. I am also known for selling food. During the pandemic, I was selling food from home. From Birria ramen, tacos to papas lowkas. I enjoy cooking for my friends and family; I like to say my secret ingredient is love.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
I spent a lot of time with my grandmother as a child, so at a very young age, she taught me the importance of being a hustler. My grandmother is a local street vendor, so by the age of 7, I was selling popcorn with Chile and chamoy to my neighbors on my block. In middle school, she would take me to the dulceria to buy Mexican candy that I would sell to my classmates. Then in high school, I was in a party crew, MOB. We would throw parties at friends’ homes and make money charging for entrance. And fast forward to the present, I came up with my cannabis game, Droteria, while I also sell food on the side. I have always been a hustler, a businesswoman that is always finding ways to make an income for myself. Shout out to my grandma, Dona Queta; she has always been an inspiration to me and has motivated me to be a strong, independent woman. As a teen, I also enjoyed participating in the arts. I enjoyed drawing in art class, singing, and performing theatre. In high school, I had a close friend whose father started a Chicano theatre group at our school called Teatro Otra Vez. I had the opportunity to perform alongside Ramon “Chunky” Sanchez, a legend from Barrio Logan. This was the moment that sparked my interest in learning more about what is it to be Chicana. I believe it is important that I embrace my indigenous roots and learn about my ancestors. I’m proud of who I am, where I come from, and those that paved the road for me.
Pricing:
- Shirts- $40
- Games sets- $40
- Key Chains- $5
- Stickers- $5
- Candles- $5
Contact Info:
- Website: droteriabyogk.store
- Instagram: @droteria_
