winner of last season’s Dancing with the Stars, goes out on top
Few people start on their lifelong path
at the age of four, but that’s just what “Dancing with the Stars” Maksim Chmerkovskiy has done.
Maks, as he is known, was born in the Ukraine and has emerged as a renowned choreographer, business owner, and a national TV celebrity. He has started his Dance With Me Dance Studios with branches in Connecticut, New York and New Jersey.
Once he joined “Dancing with the Stars” in season two, he quickly became a fan favorite, and won the most reason season with figure skater Meryl Davis.
Maksim’s parents brought him to his first dance class at the age of four. His passion for dance began during his teenage years, when it became such a huge part of his life. Unfortunately, during this time, he was in a skiing accident, which resulted in severe right leg injuries and hospitalization for months. He underwent many surgeries and was constantly monitored by doctors and physical therapists. Doctors told Maks about his high chance of being handicapped for the remainder of his life. Hearing this, Maks was adamant in proving them wrong. He began rigorous physical therapy and dedicated months of his time to healing.
Before long, Maks was back in shape and started dancing again.
In September, he’ll waltz into our own backyard. He will join actor John O’Hurley to attend Alfalit International, Inc.’s annual Global Literacy Dinner honoring Board of Directors President Joseph Milton with the Founders Award 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27, at the InterContinental Miami. Alfalit International celebrates 53 years of bringing hope and opportunity through literacy teaching basic reading, writing and math.
In 14 appearances on “Dancing with the Stars,” Chmerkovskiy made it to the final round five times, with two runner-up and two third place finishes. This year, he won his first mirror ball trophy with figure skater and partner Meryl Davis. O’Hurley, who will serve as the event MC, is a veteran television and Broadway actor best known for the role of J. Peterman on “Seinfeld” and as host of the game show “Family Feud.”
Alfalit International, Inc. is a faith based, 501 (c) (3) largely volunteer-run, Miami-based non-profit organization that provides literacy, basic education, and pre-school curriculums, as well as conducting community development, health and disease (HIV/AIDS, cholera, tuberculosis) nutrition, and micro credit programs.
Ahead of his South Florida visit, we had a chance to ask Maks a few questions:
How did you get into the profession of professional dancing?
I was four when my parents signed me up for my first dance lesson. Ten years later we immigrated to the United States and I was making $25 per night dancing in restaurants — that’s 1994 in Brooklyn, N.Y. That’s when I realized I might stick with this dancing thing and make a career out of it.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
Mandatory work out is the best part. You have no choice but to stay in shape … and you get to dance with beautiful girls.
What did you want to be when you grew up? How does that compare to where you’ve ended up?
I actually wanted to be a chemist. I had a chemistry/biology major since I was in sixth grade and studied those subjects at the University of Ukraine. Things didn’t shape out to be what I expected, but how can I possibly complain?
How have your past experiences helped you in your current position?
I dealt with people (students, partners, coaches, competitors, etc.) all my life. I think that’s the greatest skill I acquired. The ability to communicate and be comfortable in close proximity with people, is an invaluable social skill.
Why have you chosen to participate in this Sept. 27 gala?
I believe in Alfalit! From the people at the helm, with their passion for helping others and ability to deliver, to the people on the receiving end! I’ve met people whose lives were completely changed after going through Alfalit programs and they couldn’t be more grateful! There are many charities out there. Many amazing people helping less fortunate of the world. Alfalit is one that makes me feel like I make a difference and I’m giving back for all the amazing things I was given in my life!
What advice would you give your younger self?
I’m compelled to answer this with “Don’t do it!” but I am so grateful for everything in my life that it would be hypocritical of me to do so. I wouldn’t change anything and would just like to tell my younger self, “Keep working! It’ll all be worth it real soon!”