About Okito
Where it all began
Okito America was founded in 2007 with a simple idea: families deserve a place where their children can grow — not just physically, but in character, confidence, and community.


Our Story
Three locations. Thousands of lives touched.
One consistent mission.
What started as a single martial arts school in Gainesville, Florida has grown into a multi-location family center serving hundreds of children and families.
Okito was co-founded by the Millan family. Mrs. Millan, a registered nurse by training, brought her care-first philosophy to everything we build. Every instructor is background-checked, CPR-certified, and trained to deliver safe, joyful experiences.

Our Philosophy
Supporting the
Whole Child.
We believe every child is capable, curious, and full of potential. Our programs are built to develop the whole child — socially, emotionally, physically, and intellectually — in a space they genuinely love coming to.
Social
Team-building, peer interaction, and community events.
Emotional
Structured guidance and positive reinforcement.
Physical
Martial arts, movement, and active play.
Intellectual
Cooking classes, creative challenges, and hands-on activities.
What We Offer
Programs Built
for Every Child.
From after-school care to martial arts, cooking classes to birthday parties — every program is designed to develop the whole child.
Martial Arts
Age-based programs with certified instructors. Kids build discipline, focus, and leadership on the mat and carry it into every part of life.

After-School Care
A safe, structured solution for busy families. Homework help, supervised activities, and a consistent environment every weekday.

Seasonal Camps
Summer and school-break camps with science, sports, cooking, arts, and supervised field trips. New adventures every week.

Cooking Classes
Okito Kitchen welcomes young chefs ages 6 and up. All equipment and ingredients provided. One-time or monthly memberships.

Birthday Parties
Memorable, fully-hosted celebrations that bring families back to Okito again and again. We handle everything.

Our Team
The Heart of
Everything We Do.
Every member of the Okito America staff is chosen for their passion, professionalism, and genuine love of working with kids.

Mr. Millan
Co-Founder
Built Okito from the ground up with a vision for a place where families feel at home and children grow in character.

Marvin Walker
Regional Chief Instructor
With a background as a youth pastor, he brings compassion, patience, and strong values to his leadership every day.

Joseph Lutz
Lead Instructor
A product of the Okito program himself. Known for his big heart, positivity, and ability to motivate students of all ages.

Thalia Millan
Regional Executive Director
Thalia 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.

Yuli Hraka
Office Manager
Yuli's exceptional organization, efficiency, and professionalism help keep every part of our operations running seamlessly.



