Black Expats in Panama®: Building Community, Culture, and Connection Through Afro-Panamanian Experiences

Black Expats in Panama® is more than a relocation platform. For five years, it has served as a trusted resource and growing community for Black expats, entrepreneurs, retirees, and newcomers seeking to explore, understand, and integrate into life in Panama.

Founded by Charlotte Van Horn, Founder and CEO of Black Expats in Panama® (BEIP), the organization has grown into one of the leading platforms connecting members of the African diaspora with Panama’s people, culture, businesses, and opportunities.

Through Cultural Relocation Tours, Diaspora Excursions, cultural events, and community meetups, BEIP offers a deeper way to discover Panama. Its experiences go beyond traditional tourism by highlighting urban, suburban, and coastal living options while introducing participants to the vibrant culture, rich history, and cuisine of Afro-Panamanian communities.

A key part of BEIP’s mission is its commitment to supporting Afro-Panamanian businesses and professionals. Charlotte intentionally partners with local businesses, service providers, and entrepreneurs, helping shift how Afro-Panamanians are seen, valued, and represented on an international stage.

Now celebrating five years in business, BEIP continues to expand its impact across Panama City and beyond. Through its Cultural Relocation Tours, community initiatives, and business network, the organization has helped strengthen connections between Black expats, Afro-Panamanian communities, and local entrepreneurs while contributing to the visibility and growth of businesses throughout its network.

The professionals and businesses aligned with BEIP, many personally vetted by Charlotte, have experienced meaningful growth through their participation in the network. As interest in Panama continues to grow among members of the African diaspora, BEIP has become a trusted bridge between prospective expats and the communities that help them feel at home.

Beyond tours, BEIP creates spaces for connection, education, and community-building. With a dedicated community of more than 30,000 followers across its digital platforms, BEIP continues to support a growing movement of Black expats interested in relocating to Panama with intention, cultural respect, and a strong sense of community. Its broader digital presence reaches an audience of more than 60,000 people, extending its impact far beyond Panama’s borders.

Why BEIP?

Relocating to a new country can be both exciting and challenging. BEIP was created to make that transition feel more informed, connected, and supported.

Through local meetups and curated experiences, BEIP brings like-minded people together for networking, conversation, friendship, and shared resources.

BEIP B2B Network

The BEIP B2B Network is made up of Black expats who are entrepreneurs building businesses in Panama. The group reached an important milestone in 2024 when a Black expat opened a food establishment in Panama City, reflecting the growing presence and contribution of Black expat entrepreneurs within the local business landscape.

Welcome Wednesdays

Welcome Wednesdays takes place on the third Wednesday of each month and is designed for newcomers who have recently relocated to Panama or are in the process of doing so. It offers an approachable space to ask questions, meet others, and begin building community.

Café & Conversation

Café & Conversation brings Panamanians and Black expats together in a social setting to practice English and Spanish, exchange culture, and build meaningful relationships through language and conversation.

BEIP Single & Satisfied

BEIP Single & Satisfied creates opportunities for social connection through outdoor excursions, food experiences, concerts, bike rides, and more. These gatherings are designed for people who want to explore Panama, meet new friends, and enjoy community in a relaxed and intentional way.

Through every initiative, Black Expats in Panama® continues to create spaces where culture, business, relocation, and community come together. Under Charlotte Van Horn’s leadership, BEIP is helping shape a more connected, culturally grounded, and economically impactful relocation experience in Panama.