Marvina Thomas, Founder and CEO of Fourtwenty Collections – Interview Series

As the medicinal side and potential benefits of cannabis continue to be studied, researched and eventually implemented in some patients’ medicine cabinets, medical professionals of all types are entering the cannabis industry as the industry expands. One such established medical professional who’s journey with cannabis-based medicines started with a bar of CBD-infused soap and now includes charity and community service as central values is Marvina Thomas, Founder and CEO of Fourtwenty Collections.

What first caught your professional and personal interest about being a nurse, and how would you say that your experience as a nurse helped form your passion for CBD/cannabis-based medicines? 

My journey into nursing came from a deep desire to care for others. I’ve always been drawn to healing—not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually too. Working as a nurse, I saw firsthand the devastation that addiction and chronic illness could have on people’s lives. One moment that really stayed with me was when a patient came in with burns from a pipe explosion. I had just started making CBD-infused soaps at the time and gave her one to try. Within two weeks, her skin began healing. That experience was life-changing. It opened my eyes to the power of plant medicine, especially CBD and cannabis, and gave me a new sense of purpose. I saw the potential to bring comfort, healing, and dignity to people in pain.

What inspired you, and what were the determining factors that led you to enter the nascent cannabis industry in 2016? And why did you initially decide on CBD-infused soap as your first product with Fourtwenty? 

It started with that one bar of soap. At the time, I was transitioning out of nursing but still looking for ways to support people in their healing. Cannabis was emerging as a powerful wellness alternative, and I wanted to be part of that movement—especially for communities that had been historically left out or criminalized. Soap was a natural first step because it blended my passion for skincare with the healing potential of CBD. It was easy to share, non-intimidating, and something I could stand behind 100%. From there, the vision for Fourtwenty Collections grew organically.

On the website, one of the main inspirations behind the brand that was mentioned was the Egyptians’ “spiritual beautification routines.” Historically, how did Egyptians utilize the cannabis plants to produce medicines and beauty products? What were some other interesting ways that cannabis was incorporated into Egyptian culture and society? 

Ancient Egyptians were incredibly ahead of their time when it came to wellness and self-care. They used cannabis in tinctures and balms to relieve pain and inflammation, and it was often part of their burial rituals and temple offerings. The spiritual beautification routines weren’t just about looking good—they were about aligning the body and soul. That’s a philosophy that really resonates with me. At Fourtwenty Collections, we honor that history by crafting products that nourish both the skin and the spirit. We see skincare as a ritual, a form of empowerment and self-love.

What are some meaningful ways that the Fourtwenty Collections’ “Buy & Give” program has assisted in community efforts, and what are some charity organizations that the program has paired up with in Arizona and New Mexico? 

The “Buy & Give” program was built into Fourtwenty Collections from day one. With every purchase, we donate essentials like hygiene products, clothing, and even healthcare resources to those in need. We’ve partnered with local shelters and recovery centers in both Arizona and New Mexico, and we’re proud to support organizations like Start Living Inc., which I also founded. It’s not just about selling products—it’s about creating impact. Our customers become part of that mission every time they shop with us.

What are some of the reviews that you’ve received for the products sold at The Goddess Boutique? What are some effective ways that CBD products could be incorporated into baths and skincare routines to benefit the consumer? 

The reviews have been overwhelmingly positive. People love the way our products make them feel—relaxed, rejuvenated, and cared for. Our CBD bath bombs are a fan favorite, especially for people dealing with stress or muscle tension. CBD works wonders when incorporated into a self-care routine. Whether it’s soaking in a warm tub or using a face serum before bed, these products help calm the nervous system, reduce inflammation, and support overall well-being. It’s about turning daily rituals into healing experiences.

As the founder of the Arizona-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization Start Living Inc., how does the organization provide help to those struggling with addiction issues? 

Start Living Inc. is close to my heart. We operate group homes and provide medical services for individuals recovering from addiction. The program offers structure, therapy, job training, and most importantly, dignity. Our graduates often find employment through Fourtwenty Collections, so they have a real path forward. We also educate them about the benefits of medical cannabis as an alternative to opioids. It’s about building bridges to a better life.

Moreover, why is it important for cannabis businesses to be involved in community service and charity? How does community service help change the unfortunately still held stigma about cannabis and its many consumers? 

Cannabis businesses have a responsibility to give back, especially considering how many lives were negatively impacted by the War on Drugs. Community service allows us to rewrite that narrative. When people see cannabis companies investing in recovery programs, youth mentorship, or housing initiatives, it shifts the conversation. It shows that we’re not just in this for profit—we’re in it for healing, for equity, and for progress.

How would you describe the process of founding the dispensary in Las Cruces and the overall state of the New Mexico cannabis industry? Was it easier compared to starting a cannabis business in other states or more difficult?

Las Cruces has been an incredible journey. The community welcomed us, and the state offered a more inclusive framework compared to others I’ve operated in. That said, there are still hurdles—from navigating compliance to securing funding. But I’ve found that when your mission is rooted in purpose, people show up to support you. We’re proud to be one of the few Black, woman-owned dispensaries in the region.

Based on your experience, what are some advantages that the New Mexico cannabis industry has over neighboring state industries? Conversely, what are some disadvantages and/or other commonly occurring problems that the New Mexico industry also holds? 

New Mexico’s biggest strength is its openness to diversity and social equity. It’s easier for small and minority-owned businesses to get a foothold. There’s also strong community support. On the flip side, the market is still maturing. There are infrastructure gaps, and not enough resources yet for ongoing education and workforce development. But it’s improving every day, and I’m excited to be part of shaping that growth.

Since operating the Las Cruces dispensary, what have been some highlights and accomplishments that the store has reached/celebrated? And what are some exciting future plans that the dispensary has? 

Opening Lit Cafe was a dream come true. We’ve hosted wellness events, celebrated local artists, and introduced people to cannabis in a safe, welcoming environment. One of our proudest moments was hiring graduates from Start Living Inc. to work in the store—watching them thrive has been incredibly rewarding. As for the future, we plan to expand our product line, build out educational workshops, and open additional locations that continue to center wellness and community.

If some type of federal cannabis reform were to be signed into law, how would such a sweeping reform change the operations of both your own businesses and the New Mexico cannabis industry as a whole? 

Federal reform would be a game-changer. It would open up banking, streamline compliance, and allow us to scale more quickly across state lines. For my businesses, it would mean access to fairer financing and broader distribution. For New Mexico, it would bring more investment and stability to the industry. But beyond the business side, federal reform would signal a long-overdue recognition of cannabis as legitimate medicine, and that would benefit everyone.

Thank you for joining us, Marvina! For more information on Fourtwenty Collections, please visit its website.