Forbes magazines in Central America and Mexico have named two Panamanian women to their 2025 rankings of the region’s most creative talent. The dual recognition highlights Panama’s rising influence in global music production and digital content creation. María Laura Castillero, a Grammy-winning sound engineer, and Susy Mouriz, a top social media creator, earned spots on the prestigious annual lists.
The announcements came in late December, capping a year of significant achievement for both women. Their inclusion places Panama alongside larger creative markets, signaling a shift in how regional talent is identified and celebrated. Forbes editors specifically sought individuals reshaping their industries through innovation and authentic connection.
Grammy Winner Represents New Latin Sound Elite
At 22 years old, María Laura Castillero has already secured a Grammy Award. Her work as a sound engineer on the album ‘Alma, Corazón y Salsa’ contributed to its win for Best Tropical Latin Album. The project was led by Peruvian artists Tony Succar and Mimy Succar.
Forbes Central America noted Castillero’s technical precision and unique sonic sensitivity. Trained in the United States, she now works from studios in Miami. She represents a growing wave of Latin American technical professionals who are essential architects of the region’s music, not just performers.
“This recognition is not just for me, but for every Panamanian girl dreaming big in a technical field,” Castillero said. [Translated from Spanish]
Her path demonstrates the specialized career opportunities now available within the global music industry. It is a field where a skilled sound engineer can achieve recognition as pivotal as any front-facing artist.
Digital Creator Builds a Community of Millions
Susy Mouriz was named a ‘Top Creator 2025’ by Forbes Mexico. She commands an audience of 33 million subscribers on YouTube and 16.7 million followers on TikTok. Mouriz began creating videos at age 11, inspired by early platform stars, and has maintained her Panamanian identity while basing her operations in Mexico.
Forbes analysts pointed to her authentic relationship with her audience as the core of her success. Mouriz often refers to her followers as her “best friends,” fostering a powerful sense of community. This approach proves highly effective within the expanding creator economy.
“The goal has always been to create a space where people feel understood and accompanied,” Mouriz stated in her Forbes profile. [Translated from Spanish]
Financial institutions like Goldman Sachs project the creator economy will encompass 107 million people globally by 2030. Mouriz’s business model, built on genuine engagement, positions her as a leader in this new economic landscape. Her work produces some of the region’s most influential content.
News of the Forbes recognitions sparked immediate celebration across social media. Fellow Panamanian artists and public figures congratulated both women. Music producer Faster commented on Mouriz’s achievement, celebrating the “impact on the digital world.” Colleagues praised Castillero’s dedication and skill, which many see as inspiring a new generation.
These accolades suggest a broader trend of Panamanian excellence gaining international platforms. They follow other national successes, such as local agencies winning major advertising awards. Being named among the most creative professionals by a global brand like Forbes carries significant weight for the country’s creative industries.
For Castillero, the path forward involves continuing to refine her craft in high-stakes recording environments. Her expertise in sound engineering is likely to be in greater demand following this public endorsement. Mouriz is poised to expand her brand further, potentially exploring new media formats or business ventures anchored by her loyal community.
Their simultaneous recognition provides a powerful narrative for Panama as 2025 concludes. It showcases the country’s ability to produce world-class talent across diverse modern fields, from technical arts to digital entrepreneurship.