Prior to founding Zealyst, we were not satisfied with the networking options available- we noticed that it was rare to leave networking events with many long lasting connections and that most of the time networking felt more like a chore than an exciting opportunity to meet great new people.
We knew we could do it better. We knew we could make networking something enjoyable, efficient, and fruitful. We look forward to watching the serendipity that will result from our efforts.
Martina Welke
Birthplace: Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
Fun Stripe: In sixth grade, Martina won a school- wide line dancing competition.
Martina inherited nomadic genes from adventurous parents; however, after landing in Seattle she knew she had found her nirvana (she also enjoys dorky humor). After studying English and Chemistry at Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine, Martina spent a year studying in South Africa, backpacking across the U.S., and farming in California. A position with Volunteers of America and the Major League Baseball Players Trust brought her to Washington, and most recently she has been working as a media consultant for nonprofits and small businesses. Her eclectic interests include alternative dispute resolution, microfinance, themed dinner parties, hiking, kayaking and mentoring.
Britta Jacobs
Hometown: Edmonds, WA
Fun Stripe: Britta once went on a two-year baking spree that consumed over 300 lbs. of flour. Those carbs helped her make a lot of friends!
Britta had the quintessential suburban Seattle upbringing complete with family camping trips, flannel shirts, and a fat Labrador. She studied Spanish and Psychology at Western Washington University where she was active in the anti-war and diversity-affirming communities. She has spent the last few years working with young children and their families. Britta is excited to meet people who are interested in mental health issues, square dancers and dog owners.
Holly Robins
Hometown: Boring, Oregon
Fun stripe: Holly learned to water ski at the age of five!
Holly spent the majority of her youth in the Northwest growing up on the outskirts of Portland in a small town called Boring (yup, you heard that right). Always one with stars in her eyes, she left at the first opportunity and studied Biology and Business Administration at Pepperdine University & The University of Arizona. While Holly has spent the last few years working as a technology consultant and digital project manager in the Seattle area, her adventurous spirit has summoned her to spend time in places like Thailand, Australia, Peru, Panama and Costa Rica over the years. Most of her time is spent in pursuit of living a life that satiates her tremendously curious nature. Her current curiosities include learning how to play the banjo, designing/sewing her own threads combined with vintage pieces, and furiously researching what other fun, interesting things are out there in the world!