Melva Lowe de Goodin is a distinguished Afro-Panamanian educator, writer, and leader whose lifelong work has profoundly shaped education and cultural awareness in Panama. As the founder of Panama TESOL in 1986 and its first president, she played a pioneering role in advancing English language teaching in the country. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of educators committed to excellence, equity, and service.

Born in 1945, Melva Lowe de Goodin is an accomplished academic and author whose scholarship has focused on highlighting the historical contributions of Panama’s Afro-Caribbean community. Educated in both Panama and the United States, she began her teaching career in Africa. Upon returning to Panama, she became deeply aware of the limited visibility of the Black community in national narratives and joined the emerging Afro-Panamanian movement. Through her work, she has been instrumental in educating others about and preserving the history of West Indian immigrants and their descendants in Panama.

Her academic career includes teaching at the University of Panama, where she later served as Director of the English Department from 2000 to 2006. She also taught English and developed courses at Florida State University–Panama, maintaining a dual commitment to education and cultural advocacy. In 1990, she published her first textbook, Practical Lessons in English. She later authored the widely recognized works People of African Ancestry in Panama: 1501–2012 and Afrodescendientes en el Istmo de Panamá: 1501–2012, which document the history of the African diaspora in Panama and have been published in multiple editions.

In 1981, she founded the Sociedad de Amigos del Museo Afroantillano de Panamá (SAMAAP) to support the preservation of Afro-Panamanian cultural and literary heritage. She also collaborated with Dr. Juan Ríos on the bilingual children’s book Ruby visita el Museo Afroantillano, further contributing to cultural education and awareness among younger generations.

Through her leadership, scholarship, and unwavering advocacy, Melva Lowe de Goodin has left an enduring mark on both English language education and the recognition of Afro-Panamanian heritage. Her contributions remain foundational to the mission and vision of Panama TESOL.

Melva Lowe de Goodin is a distinguished Afro-Panamanian educator, writer, and leader whose work has profoundly impacted education and cultural awareness in Panama.

Founder of Panama TESOL in 1986 and its first president, she dedicated her career to advancing English language teaching and preserving Afro-Caribbean heritage. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of educators committed to excellence, equity, and service.