the name and the founder

I have been asked why Panama Mule? I say, I like the name, and it is more than just the idea of a drink that I created in 2014. The drink was created with a mixture of Panamanian seco and passion fruit as the main ingredients. By smashing together these words, Panama and Mule, created a whole new meaning to me and what it truly represents. 

The name means force strength, vision, family, heritage, culture, change, dedication, and hard work .  My great-grandfather, Percy Archbold Eugene Hinds, a migrant from Barbados, were among the thousands of Caribbean workers who came to the istmus to build the Panama Canal. My great-grandfather worked on the Miraflores locks and worked for the Panama Canal Administration building. He made Panama his home and this is where I was born. 

I grew up on the land that my great-grandfather purchased in the community of Rio Abajo. He built a two-story house with 4 apartments, a common area, and land with mangos, cane, plums, and jimbilin among a few other fruits that were common in the community (There are so many other fruits that came from Jamaica and Barbados that were planted here on this Isthmus). On this same land I built Staple’s Café and later Panama Mule International (PMI).

The name Panama Mule will continue to represent much more than just an idea of a tropical drink.

My name is Genetta N. Staple Ward I grew up in Rio Abajo in the 60s. I went to school in Panama City and on the Canal Zone. Graduated from Balboa High School in 1985. Throughout the late 70s and 80s, my family traveled to the U.S. during our school breaks in the winter and summer.

I lived, worked, and studied in the U.S., worked in corporate America, served in the U.S. Air Force and was a member of the Honor Guard. I have an Associates degree in Information Management, a Bachelors degree in Business Administration, and a Master’s degree in Information Management.

My many years of experience in different office settings and diverse communities attribute to my understanding of others and their beliefs. This practice gives me the ability to communicate and have a better relationship with persons from diverse background.

My intention is to share valuable information from various sources that is focused on culture and health. And with that focus in mind, I will be reaching out to those who believe in sharing and embracing diversity.  That is Panama Mule!

Genetta N. Staple, CEO

Founder of PMI