Today we’d like to introduce you to Niccole Delestre.
Hi Niccole, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I spent my entire career in education, working with kids, families, and communities. I’ve always believed in the joy of learning, connection, and creativity, especially for young learners. While the curriculum is important, building connections with students is equally as important. Over the years, I started noticing how much children responded to tactile, relational, hands-on lessons and experiences. Nothing brought that more to life for me than when I encountered Paula at the Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association (TEPSA) Conference in June of 2023. After meeting Paula, I held an event on my then elementary campus and when I saw the kids faces “LIGHT UP” I knew I wanted to bring this level of joy to other campuses. I wanted to be a part of something that blended happiness, learning, and a sense of belonging. Thus, Zoo Crew ATX really began as a heart project and what started as a campus event quickly grew into a passion. Zoo Crew ATX is now in its second year and I still get goosebumps when kids board our mobile stuff a plush and their jaw drops open or they squeal with excitement.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Not at all — and honestly, I think that’s what makes this journey so meaningful.
Launching Zoo Crew ATX while still serving as a campus principal meant I was juggling two full-time passions at once. There were late nights, early mornings, and weekends spent trying to figure it all out. Luckily, I didn’t have to do it alone. My then Assistant Principal, Kisha Jackson-Thompson, was my partner in all things school related so it was only natural that she also became my partner in business. We knew how to communicate with students, parents, and communities about school related items but we had to learn the business side of things on our own — marketing, inventory, customer communication — all while staying true to the heart of why Zoo Crew ATX was created in the first place.
There were moments when we questioned whether we would be able to do this. We were walking away from our careers to pursue this dream full time. We had both spent years going to school and earning advanced degrees. Our husbands thought we were crazy (and at times so did we). The hardest part was giving ourselves permission to grieve what we were losing and slowly letting go. I resigned my position in April of 2024 and she resigned in July of 2024.
Yet, every time we see a child’s face light up when they’ve finished stuffing their animal, and we put that backpack on their backs, the struggles were more than worth it. Those moments reminded us that we built more than a business — we were building memories, connection, and comfort for kids in communities throughout the greater Austin area; and for some kiddos, especially those with special or sensory needs, we were providing the environment for them to experience it all!!
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Zoo Crew ATX is all about creating an interactive experience that helps children feel seen, supported, and celebrated. At its core, our work blends creativity, social-emotional learning, and hands-on fun. We specialize in bringing cuddly animal–building events directly to schools, families, and community organizations, turning ordinary moments into meaningful memories.
What we’re most known for is the combination of warmth, organization, and heart that we bring to every event. It’s not just about stuffed animals — it’s about giving kids a chance to create something that’s all their own. From choosing their animal to placing a tiny heart inside once it’s stuffed, every step is intentional. We want each child to walk away with a sense of accomplishment and joy.
What I’m especially proud of is how quickly Zoo Crew ATX has become a trusted partner for campuses and community programs. We live for the moments when we get to work with schools that have high special needs populations or with Action Behavior Centers. Before and after an event, educators tell us how their students talk about the experience for days. Parents share that their child sleeps with their animal every night. Kids beam with pride as they show off their new “fur”ever friend! That impact — that emotional connection — is the heartbeat of this work.
What sets us apart is our background as educators and campus leaders. We understand kids. More importantly, we understand schools. And we understood how to design experiences that feel both fun and purposeful. Every event is organized, infused with love, and provides a donation for the school. We don’t just show up with a mobile stuff your plush concept — we show up with a spirit of encouragement, and community. Zoo Crew ATX isn’t a transaction; it’s an experience.
At the end of the day, our goal is simple: to create an opportunity where children feel creative and confident. And I’m proud that Zoo Crew ATX does exactly that.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
Something that often surprises people is that Kisha and I are actually introverts at heart. Most people see us leading events, engaging with kids, supporting schools, and bringing all this joy and energy into a room, so they assume we’re naturally outgoing 24/7. But truthfully, I recharge through quiet creativity, reflection, and behind-the-scenes planning and Kisha loves a comfy couch, robe, and Judge Judy.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://zoocrewclub.com/
- Instagram: @zoocrewatx
- Facebook: @zoocrewatx
- Other: TikTok – zoocrewatx
Image Credits
Texas Touch Photography
Zoo Crew ATX Co-Owners
