Zel has been an artist her entire life; expressing herself through drawing, painting and creating clothes and costumes. She is a Navy brat born in the Philippines and raised in a small town of Northern California. After taking a break from nursing school to help open Spiritual Journey Tattoo, Zel decided to continue on as an artist. She picked up a machine in 2011 and taught herself how to tattoo, specializing in traditional line work. She was one of the first women to join Tatak Ng Apat Na Alon (Mark of the Four Waves) Tribe and is still an active member helping with logistics and promoting the revival. She holds her culture close to heart and is dedicated to keeping tradition alive.