¡Panamá Presente!

Join us for ¡Panamá Presente!, a vibrant gathering celebrating Panamanian food and culture while supporting a critical cause. This special event benefits , a Panamanian elder in need of a blood stem cell donor.
Lou’s search for a donor highlights a bigger issue: Black and Latino patients are far less likely to find a matching donor. ¡Panamá Presente! and NMDP (formerly Be the Match) are working together to change that.

🌿 A Curated Menu – Enjoy a selection of Panamanian dishes crafted by chef Dani Solis of , inspired by her family's journey to the U.S.
🍹 Hand-Crafted Drinks – Sip on cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages infused with Panamanian flavors, thoughtfully prepared by Open Test Kitchen.
🗣 A Call to Action – Hear from Itzel Hayward, Lou’s daughter, about his story and learn the many ways you can help—whether by joining the NMDP registry, spreading awareness, or supporting the cause in other ways.
🎨 Kids' Corner – A welcoming space for little ones to engage in fun activities while you enjoy the event.

Join us for the opportunity to connect, learn, and make a difference within the Panamanian community and beyond.

• Celebrate and support Panamanian culture through food and storytelling.
• Learn about the critical need for more Black and Latino donors on the NMDP blood stem cell registry and how you can help save lives—whether you’re eligible to register or not.
• Enjoy a welcoming, casual atmosphere where community and connection take center stage.

Host or Publisher Oakland Bloom