Mariana van Zeller Net Worth: Mariana van Zeller is an Emmy winning journalist and documentarist who appears primarily as a host and correspondent in National Geographic’s ‘Trafficked with Mariana van Zeller.’ She is from Cascais, Portugal, on 7 May, 1976.
Since very early days she developed the fire for journalism by earning her postgraduate master of arts in journalism in Columbia University and she covered everything ranging from BBC to Channel 4 to join National Geographic last.
Van Zeller is known for her investigative journalism on global black markets. She is married to fellow journalist Darren Foster and has one son, Vasco, whom she currently lives with in Los Angeles.
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Mariana van Zeller Bio/Wiki
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Mariana Van Zeller |
| Born | May 7, 1976 |
| Place of Birth | Lisbon, Portugal |
| Nationality | Portuguese |
| Net Worth (2025) | $2 million – $3 million |
| Salary per Episode | $50,000 – $100,000 |
| Education | Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism |
| Occupation | Investigative Journalist, Documentary Filmmaker, Host |
| Famous For | Trafficked with Mariana Van Zeller (National Geographic) |
| Other Major Work | VICE (Field Reporter) |
| Spouse | Dylan (Documentary Filmmaker) |
| Social Media Following | 500,000+ followers on Instagram |
| Income Streams | Documentary Hosting, Speaking Engagements, Brand Collaborations, Social Media Monetization |
| Major Projects | Trafficked with Mariana Van Zeller, National Geographic series, and multiple documentary films focusing on underground industries |
| Primary Focus | Investigative Journalism, Long-Form Investigative Reporting, Documentary Filmmaking |
| Ethical Stance | Journalism Ethics, Focus on Field Reporting Safety, Commitment to Editorial Integrity and Human Connection with Subjects |
| Key Topics Covered in Documentaries | Human Trafficking, Drug Trade, Black Market, Global Crime Networks |
Who Is Mariana van Zeller?
Mariana van Zeller is a distinguished journalist and documentary filmmaker, best known for hosting Trafficked with Mariana van Zeller on National Geographic. Born in Cascais, Portugal, on May 7, 1976, she pursued her passion for journalism after studying international relations in Lisbon.
She later earned a master’s degree in journalism from Columbia University, where she honed her investigative reporting skills.
Over the course of her career, van Zeller has worked for prominent media outlets such as PBS, CBC, and Channel 4, covering major global stories and producing compelling documentaries.
Throughout her career, van Zeller has become renowned for her in-depth exploration of global black markets, taking audiences behind the scenes of illegal industries worldwide.
Her fearless approach to sensitive topics and dedication to field reporting have earned her widespread recognition. In addition to her professional success, she is married to Darren Foster, a fellow journalist and National Geographic producer, and the couple has a son named Vasco.
Mariana van Zeller Early Life
Mariana van Zeller was born on May 7, 1976, in Cascais, Portugal, where she spent her early years developing a keen interest in global affairs. Growing up in Lisbon, she was exposed to various cultural and international influences that sparked her curiosity about the world.
This academic foundation laid the groundwork for her future career in journalism, combining her passion for global issues with a desire to tell compelling stories.
After completing her studies in Portugal, Mariana moved to the United States to further her education. She earned a master’s degree in journalism from Columbia University, one of the most prestigious journalism schools in the world.
During her time at Columbia, she refined her investigative reporting skills and developed a strong ethical approach to storytelling. It was here that her career trajectory took shape, as she gained the tools and knowledge to tackle complex global issues through the lens of journalism.
Mariana van Zeller Family
Mariana van Zeller is married to Darren Foster, a fellow journalist and producer for National Geographic. The couple, both Columbia University graduates, have built a life together centered around their shared passion for storytelling and investigative journalism.
Darren plays an instrumental role in the production of Trafficked with Mariana van Zeller, contributing to the success of the series. Their partnership in both life and work has allowed them to explore important global issues together, providing a strong foundation for their careers.
The couple has one child, a son named Vasco. While Mariana is known for being private about her personal life, she has occasionally shared glimpses of her family in interviews and social media.
Mariana van Zeller Education
Mariana van Zeller’s educational journey began in Portugal, where she earned an undergraduate degree in international relations from the University of Lisbon. Her studies in international relations sparked her interest in global affairs and set the stage for her career in journalism.
During this time, she developed a passion for understanding complex global issues, which would later become a central focus in her reporting, particularly in uncovering illicit global markets and black markets.
Eager to deepen her expertise and refine her journalistic skills, Mariana moved to the United States to pursue a master’s degree in journalism at Columbia University.
It was at Columbia that she sharpened her ability to cover sensitive and challenging topics, learning how to approach them with integrity and professionalism. This education played a pivotal role in shaping her career as an investigative journalist and documentary filmmaker.
Mariana van Zeller Career
Mariana van Zeller’s career in journalism began in Portugal, where she worked for the television network SIC, covering significant national and international stories.
Her international career took off after moving to the United States, where she covered the September 11 attacks in New York, a pivotal moment that solidified her career in journalism.
In 2018, Mariana van Zeller joined National Geographic, where she became the host of Trafficked with Mariana van Zeller, a groundbreaking documentary series that takes a deep dive into the world of global black markets and illegal industries.
Her fearless and immersive approach to reporting has earned her acclaim and made her a leading voice in investigative journalism. Throughout her career, Mariana has built a reputation for uncovering complex stories that are often overlooked, using her platform to shed light on critical global issues.
Mariana van Zeller Height, Weight, and Physical Appearance
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 5’6″ (168 cm) |
| Weight | Approximately 130 lbs (59 kg) |
| Hair Color | Dark Brown |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Build | Slim |
Mariana van Zeller Husband/Boyfriend and Relationship status
Mariana van Zeller is married to Darren Foster, a fellow journalist and producer for National Geographic. The couple met while both were studying at Columbia University, and their shared passion for journalism and storytelling led them to collaborate professionally as well.
Darren is a key figure in the production of Trafficked with Mariana van Zeller, where he serves as the series producer. Their professional and personal lives are closely intertwined, with both dedicated to shedding light on global issues through investigative reporting.
The couple has a strong partnership and a close-knit family life. They have one child together, a son named Vasco, and currently reside in Los Angeles.
While they tend to keep their personal lives relatively private, Mariana and Darren have occasionally shared glimpses of their family life through social media and interviews.
Mariana van Zeller Net Worth
As of 2025, Mariana van Zeller net worth is estimated to be between $2 million and $3 million. This wealth is largely the result of her successful career as a journalist, documentary filmmaker, and television host.
Her work with National Geographic, particularly as the host of the critically acclaimed series Trafficked with Mariana van Zeller, has been a significant contributor to her financial success.
The series, which explores global black markets and illegal industries, has gained a substantial following, further boosting her profile and earning potential. Additionally, her past work with networks like PBS, CBC, and Channel 4 also contributed to her net worth.
Beyond her work on Trafficked, Mariana has been involved in various documentary projects and reporting assignments, which have helped solidify her reputation as a prominent investigative journalist.
Mariana van Zeller Plan and Goals
Mariana van Zeller’s plans and goals revolve around continuing to push the boundaries of investigative journalism. She is deeply committed to uncovering underreported and often dangerous stories that shed light on global issues, especially those involving illicit activities and black markets.
Her goal is to use her platform to raise awareness about these critical issues while maintaining a commitment to ethical reporting and field safety. She seeks to create content that challenges conventional narratives and encourages viewers to think critically about global problems.
Looking ahead, Mariana also plans to expand her work into new territories and explore additional formats for storytelling. She has expressed a desire to continue producing documentaries that not only inform but also inspire positive change.
Mariana van Zeller on Social Media
| Platform | Username/Handle | Followers | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| @marianavzeller | 168K | Shares personal and professional moments, behind-the-scenes content, and updates on her projects. | |
| @marianavzeller | 35.1K | Shares insights, news, and thoughts on global issues and investigative journalism. |
Fun Facts about Mariana van Zeller Net Worth
Born in Portugal –
Mariana van Zeller was born on May 7, 1976, in Cascais, Portugal, and has always had a global perspective on life.
Multilingual –
She is fluent in multiple languages, including Portuguese and English, which has helped her in her international reporting.
Passion for Global Issues –
Growing up in Lisbon, she developed a passion for international affairs, which led her to study international relations before pursuing journalism.
Columbia University Graduate –
She earned her master’s degree in journalism from the prestigious Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism in New York.
Journalism Career Started in Portugal –
Mariana began her journalism career with the Portuguese network SIC, where she reported on national and international issues.
Covered 9/11 –
Her international career took off after covering the September 11 attacks in New York, which was a turning point in her reporting career.
Award-Winning Documentaries –
She has produced and hosted several award-winning documentaries, with Trafficked with Mariana van Zeller being one of her most well-known series.
Adventurous Reporter –
She has reported from some of the most dangerous and challenging places in the world, including war zones and illegal trade markets.
Married to a Fellow Journalist –
Mariana is married to Darren Foster, a fellow Columbia University graduate and producer for National Geographic.
Environmental Advocate –
Apart from her investigative work, Mariana is passionate about raising awareness on environmental and social issues, often using her platform to highlight these causes.
Mariana van Zeller Video and Images
Frequently Asked Questions about Mariana Van Zeller Net Worth
What is Mariana van Zeller best known for?
Mariana van Zeller is best known for hosting the National Geographic series Trafficked with Mariana van Zeller, where she investigates global black markets and illegal industries.
Where is Mariana van Zeller from?
Mariana van Zeller was born in Cascais, Portugal, on May 7, 1976.
What is Mariana van Zeller’s educational background?
Mariana holds an undergraduate degree in international relations from the University of Lisbon and a master’s degree in journalism from Columbia University in New York.
Is Mariana van Zeller married?
Yes, Mariana van Zeller is married to Darren Foster, a fellow journalist and National Geographic producer. They have one son together, named Vasco.
What is Mariana van Zeller net worth?
As of 2025, Mariana van Zeller net worth is estimated to be between $2 million and $3 million, primarily from her work in journalism and documentary filmmaking.
What other networks has Mariana van Zeller worked for?
Before joining National Geographic, Mariana worked for PBS, CBC, Channel 4, and Current TV, covering major global events and producing documentaries.
How can I watch Trafficked with Mariana van Zeller?
Trafficked with Mariana van Zeller is available for streaming on National Geographic and can also be accessed through various on-demand platforms, depending on the region.
Conclusion of Mariana van Zeller Net Worth
Mariana van Zeller is a highly respected journalist and documentary filmmaker, renowned for her fearless investigative reporting. Through her series Trafficked with Mariana van Zeller, she has brought global attention to the hidden and often dangerous world of black markets and illegal industries.
With a strong educational background from the University of Lisbon and Columbia University, Mariana has built a career that spans major media outlets like PBS, CBC, and National Geographic.
Her dedication to uncovering untold stories, along with her passion for global affairs, has made her a leading figure in investigative journalism, with a growing impact worldwide.