Our Team

Andy Gavilanes, CEO & Founder

Andy is an international education professional with 20 years of experience in the field. He has studied, worked and travelled across the Americas, Asia and Africa. He started Amazon Learning in 2015 in the city of Tena in Ecuador. Andy is an Ecuadorian-American and was first introduced to the world of international education as an 18-year-old undergraduate in the U.S. at Louisiana State University where he studied International Relations.

Andy furthered his exposure to global learning through a transformative experience in Guinea as an agroforestry Peace Corps Volunteer. After his service he received his Masters Degree from the School for International Training in Vermont where he focused on designing and delivering study abroad programs. Andy is an energetic and inquisitive person who deeply believes in the positive effects of cross-cultural education on humanity. He loves to garden, hike and interior decorate.

Megan Knox, Program Manager

Megan is a community engagement and program specialist with 7+ years of experience in sustainable development with Indigenous communities in the U.S. and Ecuador. Raised in the U.S. in Portland, Oregon, she first came to Tena as a Beyond Travels intern in 2017. She was captivated by the Amazon and inspired by the communities’ deep knowledge of the forest. 

After completing her B.A. in Planning, Public Policy and Nonprofit Management, Megan worked for several years in community engagement for tribal planning projects before returning to Tena in 2023. As Program Manager of Beyond Travels, Megan appreciates connecting with interns, supporting their adaptation, and helping them form memorable experiences, just like she experienced as an intern. She is a travel lover and plant enthusiast; in her free time you can find her exploring, gardening, and attending community events.

Mirka Charpentier, Program Specialist 

Born and raised in Quito, Mirka moved to Tena in 2017 to study Engineering Ecosystems at Ikiam University. Mirka’s thesis proposal studied freshwater shrimp of the Amazonian Rivers. She is a lover of animals, nature and enjoys any plan in the outdoors with her rescued dogs, and has also volunteered for nature conservation.

Mirka joined Amazon Learning in 2021 to help and support the program with fresh ideas after the pandemic. She loves learning from the indigenous groups that we work with, who are always eager to share their traditions, customs, and knowledge. Mirka is so grateful to be the connection between the interns and the locals and the opportunity to strengthen her skills as a leader and a multitasker.

Angelica Yanguez, Intern Guide & Coordinator 

Born and raised in Tena, Ecuador, Angélica is part of the Beyond Travels team as an intern coordinator and guide. She helps participants settle into their programs, navigate daily life, and make the most of their experience in Ecuador.

Currently studying Marketing online, Angélica brings creativity, friendliness, and a strong ability to connect with people to her role. She loves nature, spending time outdoors, and animals, especially her cats. Her positive energy and local knowledge make her a welcoming and supportive guide for our participants.