ABOUT

More Than Just a Center.
A Place Where Kids

Can Grow.

At OKITO, our mission is to support families by providing a safe and enriching environment where children can thrive. We offer programs that nurture confidence, creativity, and meaningful connections. Everything we do is built around the needs of growing kids and the parents who care for them.

Group of kids hanging on a jungle gym at a camp outing smiling at the camera.

2026 Weekly Themes & Highlights

Rooted in Respect. Guided by Growth.

We believe every child is capable, curious, and full of potential. Our philosophy focuses on supporting the whole child—socially, emotionally, physically, and intellectually. Through structured activities, creative play, and thoughtful guidance, we help children build confidence, express themselves, and feel valued in a space they love coming to.

2026 Weekly Themes & Highlights

Rooted in Respect. Guided by Growth.

We believe every child is capable, curious, and full of potential. Our philosophy focuses on supporting the whole child—socially, emotionally, physically, and intellectually. Through structured activities, creative play, and thoughtful guidance, we help children build confidence, express themselves, and feel valued in a space they love coming to.

Photo of kids looking at a counselor performs an activity.

THE TEAM

The Team That Makes It All Possible

Our staff includes experienced educators, coaches, and caregivers who are passionate about working with children. Each team member is carefully selected, background-checked, CPR-certified, and trained to deliver fun and safe experiences. We work closely with families to create a consistent and supportive environment every child can thrive in.

THE TEAM

The Team That Makes It All Possible

Our staff includes experienced educators, coaches, and caregivers who are passionate about working with children. Each team member is carefully selected, background-checked, CPR-certified, and trained to deliver fun and safe experiences. We work closely with families to create a consistent and supportive environment every child can thrive in.

Executive Leadership

Photo of Mr. Millan

Orlando Millan

Owner

Owner

Mr. Millan started Okito America in 2007 with a vision of improving the lives of families in the Gainesville Area, by introducing them to the art of Tae Kwon Do, Kick-Boxing and Self-Defense. Mr. Millan has been involved in martial arts for approximately 30 years, with training in Special Forces. A dedicated instructor, Mr. Millan is known for his ability to motivate and instruct both young and old.

Photo of Mrs. Millan

Nori Millan

Owner

Owner

Mrs. Millan, Co-Founder and CEO of Okito America, has been part of the Okito family since day one. With a background in nursing, her nurturing nature and passion for helping others have been at the heart of the company’s mission. Alongside Mr. Millan, she has helped build a place where children and families grow, learn, and thrive together. 

Board of Directors

Instructor Marvin posing arms crossed
Marvin Walker

Regional Chief Instructor

Marvin has been part of the Okito America family for nearly a decade, working closely with Mr. Millan, whom he considers a great mentor and guide. With a background as a youth pastor, he brings compassion, patience, and strong values to his leadership. As Regional Chief Instructor, he leads with heart and dedication, motivating students, guiding fellow instructors, and helping oversee both the martial arts and after-school programs. A respected member of the Board of Directors, Marvin plays a key role in supporting Okito’s mission and team culture. Known for his humility, integrity, and devotion to his family, he continues to inspire everyone around him.

Instructor Marvin posing arms crossed
Marvin Walker

Regional Chief Instructor

Marvin has been part of the Okito America family for nearly a decade, working closely with Mr. Millan, whom he considers a great mentor and guide. With a background as a youth pastor, he brings compassion, patience, and strong values to his leadership. As Regional Chief Instructor, he leads with heart and dedication, motivating students, guiding fellow instructors, and helping oversee both the martial arts and after-school programs. A respected member of the Board of Directors, Marvin plays a key role in supporting Okito’s mission and team culture. Known for his humility, integrity, and devotion to his family, he continues to inspire everyone around him.

Yuli Hraka

Office Manager

Yuli serves as Okito America’s Office Manager, where her exceptional organization, efficiency, and professionalism help keep every part of our operations running seamlessly. With a strong background in management and administrative coordination, she brings structure and balance to a fast-paced, multi-location environment. Her passion for excellence and attention to detail have made her an invaluable member of our leadership team. Since joining Okito America, she has demonstrated tremendous personal and professional growth, continuously refining systems, improving communication, and elevating the overall efficiency of the workplace.

Yuli Hraka

Office Manager

Yuli serves as Okito America’s Office Manager, where her exceptional organization, efficiency, and professionalism help keep every part of our operations running seamlessly. With a strong background in management and administrative coordination, she brings structure and balance to a fast-paced, multi-location environment. Her passion for excellence and attention to detail have made her an invaluable member of our leadership team. Since joining Okito America, she has demonstrated tremendous personal and professional growth, continuously refining systems, improving communication, and elevating the overall efficiency of the workplace.

Maria Abello

Regional Manager

Our Regional Manager, Maria, has been part of the Okito family for many years and continues to play a vital role in our growth and success. Passionate about working with children and dedicated to excellence, she oversees all three of our locations—guiding and training managers, supporting staff, and ensuring every program runs smoothly. Her leadership, experience, and love for what she does truly inspire our team every day.

Maria Abello

Regional Manager

Our Regional Manager, Maria, has been part of the Okito family for many years and continues to play a vital role in our growth and success. Passionate about working with children and dedicated to excellence, she oversees all three of our locations—guiding and training managers, supporting staff, and ensuring every program runs smoothly. Her leadership, experience, and love for what she does truly inspire our team every day.

Thalia Millan

Regional Executive Director

Thalia Millan has grown up with Okito America, joining the family at just seven years old as a student and rising through the ranks from counselor to manager, and now Executive Director. With studies in Business Administration and Digital Design, she brings both leadership and creativity to her role, supporting operations and marketing efforts across all locations. Thalia’s passion for Okito’s mission and her love for working alongside her family reflect the heart of what makes Okito America a true community.

Thalia Millan

Regional Executive Director

Thalia Millan has grown up with Okito America, joining the family at just seven years old as a student and rising through the ranks from counselor to manager, and now Executive Director. With studies in Business Administration and Digital Design, she brings both leadership and creativity to her role, supporting operations and marketing efforts across all locations. Thalia’s passion for Okito’s mission and her love for working alongside her family reflect the heart of what makes Okito America a true community.

Joseph Lutz

Newberry Rd.

Mr. Joseph holds a very special place in the Okito America family as the very first student ever enrolled when the school opened its doors in 2007. Growing up within Okito’s walls, he developed not only strong martial arts skills but also a deep sense of leadership and community. After completing his studies, he returned to build his career as an Okito America instructor. Known for his big heart, positivity, and ability to motivate others, Mr. Joseph continues to inspire students and teammates every day. His strength, humility, and dedication truly embody the spirit of Okito America.

Joseph Lutz

Newberry Rd.

Mr. Joseph holds a very special place in the Okito America family as the very first student ever enrolled when the school opened its doors in 2007. Growing up within Okito’s walls, he developed not only strong martial arts skills but also a deep sense of leadership and community. After completing his studies, he returned to build his career as an Okito America instructor. Known for his big heart, positivity, and ability to motivate others, Mr. Joseph continues to inspire students and teammates every day. His strength, humility, and dedication truly embody the spirit of Okito America.

Managers

Coming Soon

Archer Rd. Gen. Manager

Felix is the General Manager at our Archer Road location and has been part of the Okito family for over seven years. Starting as a counselor, he has grown through dedication, hard work, and a genuine passion for helping others. Known for his humble personality and ability to motivate both kids and staff, Felix continues to make a positive impact every day through his leadership and heart.

Coming Soon

Archer Rd. Gen. Manager

Felix is the General Manager at our Archer Road location and has been part of the Okito family for over seven years. Starting as a counselor, he has grown through dedication, hard work, and a genuine passion for helping others. Known for his humble personality and ability to motivate both kids and staff, Felix continues to make a positive impact every day through his leadership and heart.

Coming Soon

Newberry Rd. Gen. Manager

Coming Soon

Newberry Rd. Gen. Manager

Felix Melendez

Alachua Gen. Manager

Felix is the General Manager at our Alachua City location and has been part of the Okito family for over seven years. Starting as a counselor, he has grown through dedication, hard work, and a genuine passion for helping others. Known for his humble personality and ability to motivate both kids and staff, Felix continues to make a positive impact every day through his leadership and heart.

Felix Melendez

Alachua Gen. Manager

Felix is the General Manager at our Alachua City location and has been part of the Okito family for over seven years. Starting as a counselor, he has grown through dedication, hard work, and a genuine passion for helping others. Known for his humble personality and ability to motivate both kids and staff, Felix continues to make a positive impact every day through his leadership and heart.

Management / Instructors

Instructor Marvin posing in his martial arts uniform hands crossed
Marvin Walker

Archer Rd.

Marvin has been part of the Okito America family for nearly a decade, working closely with Mr. Millan, whom he considers a great mentor and guide. With a background as a youth pastor, he brings compassion, patience, and strong values to his leadership. As Regional Chief Instructor, he leads with heart and dedication, motivating students, guiding fellow instructors, and helping oversee both the martial arts and after-school programs. A respected member of the Board of Directors, Marvin plays a key role in supporting Okito’s mission and team culture. Known for his humility, integrity, and devotion to his family, he continues to inspire everyone around him.

Instructor Marvin posing in his martial arts uniform hands crossed
Marvin Walker

Archer Rd.

Marvin has been part of the Okito America family for nearly a decade, working closely with Mr. Millan, whom he considers a great mentor and guide. With a background as a youth pastor, he brings compassion, patience, and strong values to his leadership. As Regional Chief Instructor, he leads with heart and dedication, motivating students, guiding fellow instructors, and helping oversee both the martial arts and after-school programs. A respected member of the Board of Directors, Marvin plays a key role in supporting Okito’s mission and team culture. Known for his humility, integrity, and devotion to his family, he continues to inspire everyone around him.

William Chacon

Newberry Rd.

William is a new member of the Okito America team and primarily instructs at our Newberry Rd location, supporting both the after-school program and martial arts classes. He continues to grow with our staff and has already shown strong dedication and aptitude. William previously worked as a substitute teacher in the Miami-Dade school district and has trained in multiple martial arts disciplines, including Taekwondo, Kendo, and Iaido. He is also a 2nd Dan retainer in Ryushin Jigen Ryu Kobudo. William’s passion for martial arts carries through in his teaching style and the positive energy he brings to the Okito America family.

William Chacon

Newberry Rd.

William is a new member of the Okito America team and primarily instructs at our Newberry Rd location, supporting both the after-school program and martial arts classes. He continues to grow with our staff and has already shown strong dedication and aptitude. William previously worked as a substitute teacher in the Miami-Dade school district and has trained in multiple martial arts disciplines, including Taekwondo, Kendo, and Iaido. He is also a 2nd Dan retainer in Ryushin Jigen Ryu Kobudo. William’s passion for martial arts carries through in his teaching style and the positive energy he brings to the Okito America family.

Joseph Lutz

Newberry Rd.

Mr. Joseph holds a very special place in the Okito America family as the very first student ever enrolled when the school opened its doors in 2007. Growing up within Okito’s walls, he developed not only strong martial arts skills but also a deep sense of leadership and community. After completing his studies, he returned to build his career as an Okito America instructor. Known for his big heart, positivity, and ability to motivate others, Mr. Joseph continues to inspire students and teammates every day. His strength, humility, and dedication truly embody the spirit of Okito America.

Joseph Lutz

Newberry Rd.

Mr. Joseph holds a very special place in the Okito America family as the very first student ever enrolled when the school opened its doors in 2007. Growing up within Okito’s walls, he developed not only strong martial arts skills but also a deep sense of leadership and community. After completing his studies, he returned to build his career as an Okito America instructor. Known for his big heart, positivity, and ability to motivate others, Mr. Joseph continues to inspire students and teammates every day. His strength, humility, and dedication truly embody the spirit of Okito America.

WHY CHOOSE US?

Why Families Choose OKITO.

Parents trust us for more than just convenience. Here’s what sets us apart and keeps families coming back year after year.

WHY CHOOSE US?

Why Families Choose OKITO.

Parents trust us for more than just convenience. Here’s what sets us apart and keeps families coming back year after year.

Safe and Secure Environment

Safe and Secure Environment

Our centers follow strict safety protocols, including staff background checks, secure check-in/out systems, and emergency preparedness.

Our centers follow strict safety protocols, including staff background checks, secure check-in/out systems, and emergency preparedness.

Passionate, Experienced Staff

Passionate, Experienced Staff

We hire people who truly care about children. Each team member is trained to support social-emotional development, not just supervise.

We hire people who truly care about children. Each team member is trained to support social-emotional development, not just supervise.

Programs That Grow With Your Child

Programs That Grow With Your Child

From after-school care to martial arts and cooking classes, our offerings are designed to meet kids where they are and help them stretch.

From after-school care to martial arts and cooking classes, our offerings are designed to meet kids where they are and help them stretch.

Flexible Options for Busy Families

Flexible Options for Busy Families

With multiple locations, extended hours, and seasonal camps, we make it easier to balance your schedule with your child’s growth.

With multiple locations, extended hours, and seasonal camps, we make it easier to balance your schedule with your child’s growth.

A Place Kids Love to Be

A Place Kids Love to Be

Ask any of our families—children leave here with smiles, stories, and friendships that last beyond pickup time.

Ask any of our families—children leave here with smiles, stories, and friendships that last beyond pickup time.

Strong Parent Partnerships

Strong Parent Partnerships

We stay in touch through regular updates, open communication, and a genuine interest in each child’s progress.

We stay in touch through regular updates, open communication, and a genuine interest in each child’s progress.

CELEBRATING

Employees of the Month

Every month we like feature a handful of our employees at each location. Without them, OKITO wouldn't run as smoothly as it does.

CELEBRATING

Employees of the Month

Every month we like feature a handful of our employees at each location. Without them, OKITO wouldn't run as smoothly as it does.

Headshot of Valeria from the Archer Rd. Location
Graphic
Valeria L.
OA 1
Headshot of Valeria from the Archer Rd. Location
Graphic
Valeria L.

OA 1

Headshot photo of Taina from the Newberry Rd. Location
Graphic
Taina M.
OA 2
Headshot photo of Taina from the Newberry Rd. Location
Graphic
Taina M.

OA 2

Headshot photo of Mileidy from the Alachua Location
Graphic
Mileidy M.
OA 3
Headshot photo of Mileidy from the Alachua Location
Graphic
Mileidy M.

OA 3

Have questions about our programs or staff?

Have questions about our programs or staff?

Have questions about our programs or staff?

Okito America Shield Logo

Okito America is the finest Family Fitness Center serving Gainesville, FL, and the surrounding areas. At our centers, you and your family can spend quality time together while exercising to be healthy and fit.

Locations

Archer Rd.

6900 SW Archer Road, Gainesville, FL 32608

352.338.7262 Ext. 1

Newberry Rd.

7420 W Newberry Road, Suite A,
Gainesville FL 32605

352.338.7262 Ext. 2

Alachua

13146 NW 86TH DR, Suite 100, Alachua, FL 32615

386.206.5486

© 2024 Okito America. All rights reserved.

Built with Framer by 37Sq.

Okito Word
Okito America Shield Logo

Okito America is the finest Family Fitness Center serving Gainesville, FL, and the surrounding areas. At our centers, you and your family can spend quality time together while exercising to be healthy and fit.

Locations

Archer Rd.

6900 SW Archer Road, Gainesville, FL 32608

352.338.7262 Ext. 1

Newberry Rd.

7420 W Newberry Road, Suite A,
Gainesville FL 32605

352.338.7262 Ext. 2

Alachua

13146 NW 86TH DR, Suite 100, Alachua, FL 32615

386.206.5486

© 2024 Okito America. All rights reserved.

Built with Framer by 37Sq.

Okito Word
Okito America Shield Logo

Okito America is the finest Family Fitness Center serving Gainesville, FL, and the surrounding areas. At our centers, you and your family can spend quality time together while exercising to be healthy and fit.

Locations

Archer Rd.

6900 SW Archer Road, Gainesville, FL 32608

352.338.7262 Ext. 1

Newberry Rd.

7420 W Newberry Road, Suite A,
Gainesville FL 32605

352.338.7262 Ext. 2

Alachua

13146 NW 86TH DR, Suite 100, Alachua, FL 32615

386.206.5486

© 2024 Okito America. All rights reserved.

Built with Framer by 37Sq.

Okito Word