Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Okhremchuk.

Hi Michelle, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.

Born and raised Ukrainian. Growing up in Ukraine, your options are limited—especially potential goals. Life is simply black or white. In order to provide us with the possibility of a better life and brighter future, my parents, especially my mother, did everything they could to give me and my brother a “life of many colors.”

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?

Growing up where your parents weren’t around in a country (France) where you speak no French or English, makes you grow up and adapt very fast. Since I was a little girl, I never wanted to show fear or struggle, I did not like to ask for help so I learned to solve issues on my own (could’ve taken me longer but I learned pretty quickly). I was raised by my teammates, coaches and so many people around me which I’m thankful for, giving me so many cultural lessons and perspectives on the world. I wouldn’t have gotten that education and would’ve been so limited if I stayed in Ukraine, even with all the access and social media, people are still uneducated and behind in so many years when it comes to the world we are living.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?

I am known as a tennis professional. I run a program at San Dieguito Tennis Club. I teach privates and junior and adult groups.

I’ve been in the tennis industry most of my life as a tennis player and now for the past 7 years as a coach. I’ve met, learned, and experienced so many different parts of the world and learned from some best tennis players and coaches in the world.