Cherry Tang, a master's student in real estate development at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), recently participated in a transformative project in Santa Catalina, a surf town on Panama’s Pacific coast. Working with Conservatorio, a development firm based in Casco Viejo, Tang's initial goal of creating a financial model evolved into a deeper exploration of how development intersects with community and environment. The Santa Catalina project includes approximately 140 residential units, retail spaces, and recreational facilities, designed to serve as the town’s first true center. Tang noted that while the area lacked typical development indicators, it offered world-class surfing and access to Coiba National Park, making it a unique opportunity for place-making. Throughout her month in Panama, Tang learned about the importance of integrating local culture and environmental considerations into development decisions. She engaged with local developers, scientists, and families, gaining insights into the region's infrastructure and conservation efforts. By the end of her experience, Tang had shifted her perspective on development, viewing it as a system that balances finance, design, and community engagement. She emphasized that effective leadership in real estate relies on building trust and respecting local contexts.