Quintin van Kerken’s story is one of radical transformation—a testament to the power of evidence, empathy, and unwavering integrity. Once a staunch advocate for drug prohibition, Quintin’s worldview shifted irrevocably in 2010 when his uncle, battling terminal cancer, revealed that cannabis was his only source of relief. This moment ignited a decade-long quest to dismantle systemic injustice and rebuild South Africa’s relationship with cannabis—a journey that would redefine law, science, and healing.

Architect of Legal Liberation

In 2017, Quintin’s groundbreaking “At What Cost?” reports became the cornerstone of South Africa’s cannabis revolution. By exposing the staggering human and economic toll of prohibition—including R6 billion wasted annually on policing and 78% of arrests targeting Black and Coloured communities —his work reframed cannabis as a constitutional right to privacy. These findings directly shaped the landmark 2018 Constitutional Court ruling decriminalizing private cannabis use.

A co-founder of the Cannabis Development Council of South Africa (CDCSA) and its first chairman, Quintin spearheaded efforts to bridge grassroots activism with policy reform. However, prioritizing principle over position, he stepped down as chairman when his personal convictions—particularly around equity, restorative justice, and community-led governance—diverged from the organization’s evolving policies. “True progress,” he reflects, “demands alignment between action and conscience.”

Science as a Tool for Justice

For Quintin, legalization was only the beginning. Determined to ensure equitable access to safe, effective cannabis products, he founded ClearPharm, a research-driven company dedicated to pharmaceutical-grade innovation. After years of meticulous collaboration with scientists and industry leaders, he launched Dr. Quinn’s in 2024—a brand merging cutting-edge science with social accountability.

Dr. Quinn’s Pillars:

- 100+% Pure CBD Isolate: Zero THC, rigorously tested for safety and efficacy.
- Ethical Transparency: Every batch includes publicly accessible Certificates of Analysis (COAs).
- Purpose-Driven Formulations: Products like PainAway Balm and Concentra Drops are inspired by personal stories, from his uncle’s pain relief to his children’s ADHD management.

Championing Equity Beyond Institutions

Though no longer formally tied to the CDCSA, Quintin remains a vocal advocate for those marginalized by prohibition. He critiques South Africa’s Cannabis for Private Purposes Act for failing to expunge past convictions or prioritize small-scale farmers. Through independent initiatives, he mentors Black-owned cannabis startups and champions affordable access to CBD medicines in rural areas. “The industry must uplift those it once destroyed,” he insists.

A Legacy of Quiet Revolution

A reluctant spotlight-seeker, Quintin’s leadership is defined by collaboration over accolades. Colleagues describe him as the movement’s “backbone”—a strategist who prioritizes systemic change over personal recognition. Today, he advises policymakers across Africa, develops affordable medicines for underserved communities, and fights to ensure cannabis remains a tool for reparations, not corporate exploitation.

In His Words:

“Reform without restitution is empty. Every product we create, every law we challenge, must honor those who suffered under prohibition. This isn’t just business—it’s the unfinished work of justice.”

Join the movement to make South Africa’s cannabis industry a global model for integrity.