Honoring Culture, Uplifting Community
The Panama Texas Connection Foundation shines a light on Latin American stories, traditions, and impact in Houston and the United States. Join us as we build bridges, inspire pride, and strengthen our shared community.
Honoring our stories, culture, veterans, and community impact in Houston and beyond
Celebrating Latin American Heritage
Founded with a heartfelt mission by an Iraq veteran of Panamanian ancestry, the Panama Texas Connection Foundation exists to celebrate and preserve the rich heritage of Latin American cultures in Houston and across the nation. Our journey began with a simple idea: to share the untold stories of immigrants and showcase the beauty and resilience of our communities.
Through engaging cultural events, storytelling, and educational initiatives, we honor the legacy and ongoing impact of Latin Americans in shaping Houston’s history. Our foundation serves as a bridge, connecting generations and fostering a deeper understanding of our shared heritage.
We believe that every story matters. By giving voice to immigrant experiences, including those who risked their lives and died for this country, as well as celebrating traditions like Latin dance, music, and cuisine, we nurture pride and unity within the community. Our work is rooted in compassion, aiming to inspire future leaders while preserving the essence of our culture.
Together, we strive to create spaces where everyone feels valued and empowered to make meaningful contributions. Whether you join us at events, support our programs, or share your story, you become part of a caring movement dedicated to cultural appreciation and positive change.
Meet Our Board of Directors
Roberto Lewis
President
Cecilio Semis
Vice President
Maria Lewis
Treasurer
Secretary
Secretary.
Clarissa Cockburn
Director
Eliza Semis
Director
Ingrid Green
Director
Egberto Willies
Director
Meet Our Caring Team
Alba Gondola
Director of PanTexStrong and Imaging
Christina Salmon
Secretary & Public Resources
Angela James
Administrative Coordinator
Pamela Gordon
Administrative Assistance
Fransheska Chambers
Event Planner Assistant & PanTexStrong Member
Eddie Clark
Production Specialist
Beverly Alexander
Image Assistant and PanTex Strong Assistant
Assistant
Graphic Assistant
Mission (Misión)
To celebrate, preserve, and amplify the rich heritage of Latin American cultures in Houston and beyond by sharing the untold stories of immigrants and veterans, hosting inclusive cultural events, and building bridges between generations—empowering our community through storytelling, pride, and collective action.
Celebrar, preservar y difundir la rica herencia de las culturas latinoamericanas en Houston y más allá, compartiendo las historias no contadas de inmigrantes y veteranos, organizando eventos culturales inclusivos y construyendo puentes entre generaciones; empoderando a nuestra comunidad a través de la narración, el orgullo y la acción colectiva.
Vision (Visión)
A vibrant, united community in which every voice and tradition from the Latin American diaspora is honored, every individual feels valued and empowered, and our shared cultural tapestry strengthens civic engagement and social change—so that Latin American heritage is recognized not only as a legacy, but as a living force for equity, connection, and growth.
Una comunidad vibrante y unida donde se honra cada voz y tradición de la diáspora latinoamericana, donde cada persona se siente valorada y empoderada, y donde nuestro mosaico cultural compartido fortalece la participación ciudadana y el cambio social, para que la herencia latinoamericana sea reconocida no solo como un legado, sino como una fuerza viva para la equidad, la conexión y el crecimiento
Honoring culture, connecting generations, inspiring change.
Our Core Focus Areas
Celebrating Latin American heritage, empowering our Houston community.
Feel the rhythm, join the celebration.
Cultural Events & Experiences
We host dynamic events that showcase Latin dance, music, and art—inviting everyone to celebrate together.
Keeping history alive for future generations.
Heritage Preservation
Our foundation preserves the unique stories, artifacts, and traditions that shape Houston’s Latin American history.
Empowering our community, one voice at a time.
Advocacy & Community Impact
We stand up for Latin American voices, working together for opportunity, representation, and positive change in Houston.
Every story builds a stronger community.
Sharing Community Stories
We shine a light on the inspiring journeys of Latin Americans, fostering understanding and unity across Houston.
Support Our Mission
Your involvement creates lasting impact