Born in Panama, Jovanka immigrated to the United States at age 9. Her stepfather's military career exposed her to diverse cultures and ways of life, teaching her flexibility and cooperation. She attended Florida A&M University on a full-ride basketball scholarship, majored in psychology, and later earned an MBA. For decades, Jovanka has worked as a mental health clinician in public health, aiding some of the most marginalized children and families in Contra Costa County.