Meet Zovargo
Zovargo is built on the foundation of animal welfare, conservation, and youth education. As any team, it's only as strong as the individuals who put their time, hearts, and energy into our organization.
Zovargo is extremely lucky to have talented, compassionate individuals who strive to make a change in the local community by giving their time and energy to Zovargo.
“Surround yourself with people who are going to motivate and inspire you.” -Charles M. Marcus
Amanda, Founder / Animal Educator
Ms. Plante is dedicated to a life of service to make the world a better place through Zovarogo’s mission. Amanda has given over a decade of her heart, time and resources to establish and maintain Zovargo while supporting her full-time career as a Data and Analytics Director for the Navy. In her free time she can be found spending time with friends, in nature, or focusing on personal goals.
Amanda has an MBA in Information Technology and Project Management as well as a Bachelor of Science. Additionally, she is a Certified Interpretive Guide Trainer (CIGT), Certified as a Knowledge Management (KM) professional; has completed many professional training courses through the Association for Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). She also holds a certificate in Non-Profit Management from the University of San Diego. In 2016 she completed the AZA's comprehensive professional development program, earning a certificate in Education & Interpretation.
Heather, Senior Animal Educator / Animal Care Specialist
Growing up in Moreno Valley, California, Heather has always been a lover of animals, living with multiple dogs her whole life. Currently, Heather lives with two Great Danes and two Chihuahua Terriers, and absolutely loves the chaos of a dog-filled house and could play with them all day long. In addition to working at Zovargo, Heather works as a substitute teacher and comes from a big family of educators and so she has always loved working with kids. Recently, she graduated with her Master’s in Fisheries and Wildlife Administration where she was able to discover Zovargo and complete her research within conservation education with Zovargo’s help. Her research focused on the importance of positive programs like Zovargo that engage young minds within conservation and has experienced first hand the positive impact that Zovargo can have!
One fun fact about Heather is that she has been going on road trips since she was a baby and so she has visited 47 out of 50 states (and still loves traveling on the road)!
Maya, Animal Educator / Animal Care Specialist
Maya is a dedicated individual with a passion for wildlife conservation. Hailing from San Diego, she was nurtured by an adventurous, outdoorsy family, fostering her love for nature. Her childhood menagerie, featuring snakes, birds, tarantulas, and lizards, attests to her lifelong fascination with animals. Maya's journey towards wildlife conservation started early, culminating in a transformative volunteer program in Zimbabwe, where she worked with critically endangered Black Rhinos. This experience solidified her desire for a career in wildlife. Beginning with dogs at a daycare and training facility, Maya honed her animal care skills before delving into wildlife conservation at The California Wolf Center in Julian. There, she immersed herself in the care and education of the critically endangered Mexican Grey Wolves. Joining Zovargo in January 2023, Maya's volunteer work blossomed into a deep connection with the organization's mission and community impact. Her commitment to conservation through education reflects her aspiration to grow alongside the organization, embodying a dedication to learning and making a difference.
One fun fact about Maya is that she is an avid fantasy/fiction reader and hopes to write her own novel one day!
Karen, Animal Educator / Animal Care Specialist
Karen is an aspiring biologist and a former Zovargo Intern who began her Zovargo journey in 2024. She has a great love for nature, science, and appreciating all wildlife - big and small! When she started with Zovargo she was looking to gain experience in the world of conservation and realized her ability to connect advanced science topics to all ages was something she was not only good at, but she enjoyed it very much.
She currently is finishing up her degree in Biology and is continuing to expand her own knowledge by completing various environmental certifications and attending local conferences. Her passion for learning and teaching is a strong attribute that contributes to the joy and fulfilment in support Zovargo in wildlife conservation education programs!
