Women of Panama: Building Change From the Ground Up

By Do Panama

Bocas del Toro, Panama — June 21, 2021 —

Two women with a vision are making waves in Panama, proving that entrepreneurship and heart can go hand in hand. Featured in Panama Magazine’s “Women of Panama” series, Erin Williams of Azul Paradise and Cecilibeth Lawrence of Salt Creek Soaps are recognized for their efforts to build projects that provide for the community and create sustainable opportunities for the future.

What began as a dream to live with purpose quickly became a mission to give back. Together, Erin and Cecilibeth created Salt Creek Soaps, a project that empowers local families to use natural resources — like the coconuts that line the beaches — to produce organic coconut oil and handmade soaps. The project doesn’t just generate income; it builds pride, independence, and sustainability within the Ngäbe-Buglé community of Salt Creek.

“Our goal has always been bigger than business,” said Erin. “We came here to build something lasting for the community — jobs, education, and a chance for families to thrive.” Cecilibeth echoed this sentiment, adding, “Salt Creek Soaps is proof that when women come together with purpose, we can create change that impacts generations.”

By connecting local tradition with global markets, Salt Creek Soaps has grown into more than a small business — it’s become a humanitarian project under the Grow Global Guardians initiative, with the potential to expand across Bocas del Toro and beyond. Both women hope their recognition as Women of Panama inspires others to invest in projects that not only support the economy but also strengthen the communities that make Panama unique.

As Erin and Cecilibeth look ahead, their focus remains the same: to empower, to provide, and to prove that meaningful change starts when you combine passion with action.