“Michael Sirota has his pulse on the beat of emerging special needs through movement, focus and discipline. His students are earnest in their efforts to learn, grow, and bloom. His troupe performed in my show, The ART of AUTISM in Vancouver last Spring leaving not a dry eye in the house! BRAVO.”
Keri Bowers
Co-founder at The ART of AUTISM

“Very high quality teaching, especially for children and the disabled. We have found all aspects of his business to be excellent and progressive. We also find all the charitable events that he promotes to be excellent causes.”
Grant Berezan

“Michael is a pioneer in his industry, a leader who makes a difference in the world. I have worked with Michael multiple times for over 10 years and I would strongly recommend him. I enjoy spending time with him, he makes you feel comfortable and his work ethic is second to none. The path he has taken over the past decade+ is as impressive as it is inspirational.”
Rob Banks

“The way Master Sirota manages his classes are very impressive. Besides providing excellent coaching, the respectful and calm way he talks to each student has always made a big impression on me, irrespective of the behaviour of the student. He manages to maintain discipline with a very gentle approach yet with a clear understanding of the needs of each student. He is dedicated to his sport, to his students and to fundraising for the underprivileged. I sincerely recommend Master Sirota’s Alchymy to all who wish to pursue the sport of Tae Kwon Do, no matter what their physical capability.”
Laura Zitron

“Michael is a incredibly gifted teacher and innovator. His insight and patience in dealing with special-needs children is inspiring. He is always looking for ways to learn from his students. Therefore, his special-needs classes are constantly evolving. Excellent work! This man is a treasure to our community.”
Victoria Warfield

“Michael is a fabulous and excellent person because he supported the deaf and hard of hearing children for encouraging them in the taekwondo program. I observed the children who gave a lot of smile and enjoyed there. His staff learned a basic sign language to communicate the deaf and hard of hearing children during the program. I found him that he worked well with us.”
Roger Chan
Sign Language Specialist at BC Public Service

“Master Michael Sirota not only a great coach or a perfect guide on the path of martial arts who is proficient in wide variety of fighting/self-defending techniques and in teaching them. His great job in developing educational programs for special-needs people of different ages and promoting those programs internationally make a World-wide positive change. I’m glad to be one of his students.”
Pavel Trochtchanovitch

“Michael’s Taekwondo classes are an extraordinary blend of gentleness and inclusion and fierce competition. Adults, children, fully mobile and disabled all benefit from Michael’s unique teaching regimen.”
John Harris
Producer at Accessible Media Inc.

“Master Sirota has a gift for seeing the excellence in everyone, and provides a well run, and caring Martial Arts studio. His heart for children with Special Needs, is evident in all the work he has done.”
Victor Ewert

“Master Sirota has really filled a niche in my Son’s physical training. Using discipline and creativity to build self confidence, fitness, and a sense of accomplishment. Great program and flexible to work with.”
Ron Kinders

“Michael has been providing an extremely important service to individuals with disabilities in British Columbia for many years. He teaches a modified martial arts program to this population which is by no means an easy task. He is an unselfish dedicated teacher who is having a positive impact on the lives of so many. We are fortunate to indeed have individuals like Michael in our community who serve as inspirational leaders for us all.”
John Millard
Executive Director at Cheshire Homes Society of British Columbia

“Master Sirota has created an excellent environment to learn Taekwondo and Hapkido that is supportive, engaging, and challenging whether you are an elementary school student or a parent, like me, trying to stay in shape and learn new skills.”
Mark Ellens

“Michael Sirota has great vision and creativity. I am impressed with his paralympicinitatives in Taekwondo in Canada and within the World Taekwondo Federation. I hope that his programs for paralympic athletes are adopted world wide”
Dr. Terry DeFreitas
Sports Medicine Physician Taekwondo Canada

“Michael and his team at Sirota’s Alchymy have transformed the lives of the families I serve at the Developmental Disabilities Association. Through his kind, generous and thoughtful teachings his students have learnt how to be citizens of their community, while learning how to self regulate through their martial arts practice”.
Tina Pardiwala Advocate, Support Worker
Developmental Disabilities Association

“I am the parent of Michael van Houten who is a very quiet, shy, autistic 15 year old. I had heard of Sirota’s Alchymy several years ago and I knew that they had a Special Needs Program. Master Sirota suggested trying private lessons…the classes were excellent. As time went on, Michael was looking forward to going to every class. Master Sirota was calm! Gentle but firm and I knew that he understood Michael and was very experienced. What struck me the most was that Master Sirota talked to and taught Michael like he was a great human being and didn’t assume anything about him being autistic. Thank you for your wonderful continued support Master Sirota and all the great, caring staff.”
Judy van Houten

“Master Sirota, on behalf of Taekwondo Canada congratulations on your well deserved induction into the Hall of Fame . You are truly an inspiration and credit to the art and sport of Taekwondo.”
Sean FitzGerald
President
TAEKWONDO CANADA

“A sincere thanks to all of you for making JasXe’s 9th birthday a wonderful one. JasXe was quite excited to hold her birthday at your establishment. The talk of the party was about JasXe using a real sword to cut her birthday cake. She was the envy of many of her friends. I want to thank Mister Lloyd for taking his time to make the party enjoyable and energizing. He had the parents get involved in the party by joining in the “class”. I haven’t had a good workout like that in years. Mister Lloyd has a great repoire with everyone he encounters and shows much patience for the “loud” children. I recommend others to book a party with Sirota’s as the party is fun, you get a great workout, and you learn the basics of self defense. What more can a child or adult ask for? You can be sure that I will recommend parties there in future. JasXe will always remember this birthday for many years. Thank you.”
Tracy Marie Valentino Gallop
Parent

“You truly have a gift for improving both the local and global community!”
SylviFereke
Accessible Media

“My son’s experience has been very positive, he often comes home with a sense of achievement and has shown a real interest in working to achieve his badges. We have all very much enjoyed the experience with Sirota’s Alchymy and would highly recommend it.”
Thanks,
KoszimaMair

“Your far sighted direction has had a profound impact on a lot of people… me being one of them.”
Ken Thibault

“As a father of a son born with Aspergers I can truly appreciate your good work.”
Master Daniel Witt – 6th Dan Black Belt

“Martial Arts has changed me into a person ready to take on the World”
Jeremy S. age 17

“I have learned self control of my temper. It gave me confidence. I feel happy because I have accomplished a dream. If I can do it, so can you!”
Student from our Special Needs Martial Arts Program

“Thank You Master Sirota for your guidance, inspiration and creative improvisation in creating martial arts classes for people who have disabilities.”
Vivian Garcia, B.C. Paraplegic Association

“Training at Sirota’s Alchymy helped me understand to work harder at anything I do in life… made my self-confidence skyrocket, and made me healthier. I would have started Taekwondo much earlier if I knew it can help me out as much.”
Aurel T. age 15

“Training at Sirota’s Alchymy has taught me skills to try my best and contribute to the World”
Keanna B. age 12

“I would like to begin with a Thank You. Roneesha has truly enjoyed your martial arts program. She is truly eager to become a black belt someday. This has helped her with her balance and reflexes. I am very happy with your character development program where kids have an opportunity to focus on the skills and understand what each of them means. You have a great institution. I wish you all the best in the future.”
Roneesha’s Mom

“Sirota’s Alchymy made me gain confidence in myself. Thanks to Master Sirota, I am not scared of challenges anymore”
Emma S. age 9

“With your skills in Taekwondo and dedication, the members of this community will be in good hand. Thank you very much for being a good ambassador of TKD and Taekwondo Canada.”
Master Su Hwan Chung
Secretary General, Taekwondo Canada

“We are so grateful to Sirota’s Alchymy for providing a welcoming and safe environment for our son as well as opportunities for him to challenge himself and grow. Attending classes at the Alchymy is about much more than learning Tae Kwon Do skills. It is also about developing self-confidence and determination to help him succeed in other avenues of his life. The Alchymy has also provided opportunities for students to become more socially aware of issues and needs not only in their own community but beyond as well. In addition, it is such a pleasure to see the friendships that have grown as a result of attending classes.”
Liz Komar (Mother)

“Congratulations! You are a true gift to our community. I will always be grateful for the energy you put into teaching and supporting Tony. Thanks and continued success. I hope you will be there for families like ours for years to come.”
Sincerely,
Vicki Warfield (mother of a special needs child)

“I am very excited for you and Taekwondo, you’ve done a great job by moving your sport and access for athletes forward.”
Jane Samletzki
Executive Director
BC Disability Games

“Taekwondo has influenced my life that it gave me more perseverance…I have started getting better grades in school because I work harder now”
Lauren B. age 9

“Emily started a year ago at Sirota’s Alchymy and I am very happy with everything they are teaching her. She has private lessons with Mr. Vadim Korotchenko and he is patient, gentle yet firm and a excellent teacher. Emily just passed from white belt to orange belt. This is a much bigger accomplishment than you can imagine because Emily has Down’s Syndrome. I was so proud to see her manage her test in a group situation which is very hard for her. I love the things Vadim is teaching her and have brought many family and friends to watch and they all come away deeply impressed by what they see. My father said how wonderful Vadim is with Emily and he is amazed at what he sees Emily doing. Others have expressed similar positive views and are very supportive of the positive changes they have seen Emily undergo in this last year. Thank you to Vadim and to The Alchymy, you do wonderful things, and we look forward to another year of progress.”
Gina

“Michael is a dedicated professional ,who is committed to the development of taekwondo for all. He has developed Special needs and Para programs to create an all inclusive training environment for his students regardless of Mental or physical ability.We can learn a lot from him.”
Mr. Martin Fleming, President – Irish Taekwondo Union

“Doing martial arts at Sirota’s Alchymy has been a very positive experience for my son. We had done martial arts somewhere else previously and the quality of teaching was not nearly as good. I have found that each and every staff member at Sirota’s Alchymy shares Master Sirota’s sense of being fully present for the children in the class. They are respectful, compassionate, encouraging and really bring out the best in all the children in the class. I love that the classes are good exercise, confidence building, self defense and character development all rolled into one. My son only wishes we had gotten started at Sirota’s sooner! Thank you!
David’s mom

“Michael Sirota has long term great dedication to the development and advancement of Para-Taekwondo as a Paralympic sport at local, regional and international levels.”
Dr. Jag Maharaj, IPC International Classifier

“There are few people with a passion for their industry like Michael. I have always been impressed with his loyalty and commitment to making lives better for persons with disability. He is truly an inspiration”
Prof. David Legg, Past President – Canadian Paralympic Committee

“My son began attending martial arts summer camp for Special Needs at Sirota’s Alchymy in 2011. He was very happy and we continued until spring 2012.. It was pleasant to have my Down Syndrome son interested and participating in a group activity. He learned many things and made himself proud. I am very grateful to Master Sirota and his staff for providing quality instruction. This was a terrific opportunity for my son. It might be true that there are no alternatives in Vancouver but I wouldn’t have wanted any.”
Tina Cruise

“Michael has a passion in promoting Martial Arts to people with disabilities. Michael demonstrates great understanding and empathy to children with special needs and people with disabilities; he empowers them to gain confidence and to appreciate self control.”
Ella Huang, ED, Richmond Centre for Disability

“My boys have joined Alchymy for almost a year now. They love going there and the team is very welcoming and caring. They send postcards to motivate the boys and it’s really sweet.”
Nahla Anees

“Our son has been taking special needs lessons at the Victoria Drive location for almost a year. During that time, he has gained strength, coordination and confidence. The teaching staff are awesome and all work hard to ensure students make positive progress. The school fosters a healthy sense of community, I see students with a range of skills & needs, come-together and train as one. Yes there are financial commitments, but if your child is interested and prepared to put in the effort, you’ll find this place is the real deal. It’s also important to note that during this time of covid, the school has really excelled with virtual classes and well thought-out procedures during in-person lessons.”
Lloyd Burr

“The administration and the teachers are completely committed to the students. It was amazing to see their dedication during covid as they moved their classes from in person to online to in person again. They are focused on growing the students in martial arts and in their lives. The classes are fun, fast-paced, encouraging and mindful of the needs of the child. I am also impressed by the school’s commitment to their community, for example running “blanket drives” in the winter for people living close to the street. It’s an excellent school that lives its philosophy.”
Elana

“We originally signed up because our child needed to learn a better sense of balance and we walked away with so much more. Sirota’s alchemy has been so incredibly patient with our child who easily loses focus. We have noticed an increase in positive behaviors during our time here. They have managed to motivate him and help him stay on task. Thank you!~”
Angela Nee

“We love coming here for our group class with our son. He can not wait to learn more skills among his friends from passionate and fantastic teachers. We highly recommend Sirota Alchemy!”
Bogna Altman

“Sirota’s Alchemy has been incredible for our daughter’s confidence, discipline, and perseverance.”
Keith Ipple

“My son has had three different instructors and they have all been absolutely wonderful in their own way!”
Kelly Watt

“I am the mom of a child with neurodiverse and physical abilities. We struggled to find an activity she could participate in and excel at for many years. On the recommendation of a friend, whose daughter also took classes at Sirota’s, we met Master Sirota for a 1:1 session to determine if he felt she could join the special needs group class. He said she could,, and though I was skeptical I was also very excited for her. I was soooo shocked to see how engaged the instructors and kids where… it’s been a few years since we began, and my daughter continues to learn in grow in so many ways. Yes, she Just tested for her green belt after being camo for over a year… but the teachers kept her motivated despite being on line for half of it!!!! that in itself is a HUGE deal!!!

The Alchymy ensures the students learn the moves they need, but they really learn a lot more. They learn about themselves as humans, about their abilities and a language of perseverance and determination.

I cannot recommend Sirota’s Alchymy enough. It is one of the best things in my daughter’s life and she really loves it. Her body is benefitting as well as her brain – AND she has fun doing it. We also love the summer camps and the special tournaments the kids can do and earn trophies for demonstrating what they know.

Master Sirota has found ways to keep the kids motivated while the take the necessary time it takes to work towards their belts. There is no set amount of time or lessons it takes to be able to test, so having motivation along the way with different theme months, or focuses on learning, or stickers etc has been really helpful.

It’s worth what they charge, and they also give back in so many ways. Oh and one more thing, the instructors are VERY consistent. Both in what they are teaching ( and how),, and also,, who. The kids get to know and trust their instructors who are always there for them unlike other classes where every term the instructors are changing. These instructors really KNOW our kids and that makes a huge difference, HIGHLY recommended!!!!!”
Risa Litwin

“My son has been attending Sirota’s since September 2021 . We were referred here by Sunny Hill Rehab and BC Centre for Ability to support my son’s rehab journey both physically and emotionally after a long battle with brain cancer. We have seen amazing results in a very short time in his physical coordination and in his confidence in himself. We value the work they do with children and youth of all abilities and highly recommend their services.”
Kimberley Berger

“Best place to start with young children needing lots of focus. I came in to try it out for a month and my son loved it. I have seen so much progress in him within less than a month of attending we decided to sign up for a membership. No pushy sales to purchase a membership whatsoever unlike most places did when we were scouting for dojos. The instructors are amazing, patient, and lovely. Master Sirota is also very much in touch with the progress of each students I am very pleased to hear the good and the bad of his progress. Overall just an amazing experience for us.”
Jam Aragones

“I’m very grateful that Sirota’s martial arts school exists & offers some classes for kids with special educational needs. As the parent of a child with ADHD & Autism & sensory processing issues, it’s almost impossible to find an extracurricular activity who has staff that will work with children that need support. Master Sirota is kind, patient, and gentle in demeanor with my son Brendan, and Mr. Park & Mr. Gustavo are truly excellent & patient instructors. I initially signed up my son just so he could finally participate in some sort of activity, but what’s happened has completely surpassed my initial expectations: He loves coming to his classes each week and looks forward to it. He’s learned to focus more out of his own desire to do so, and follow along with the group lessons trying his best and wanting to succeed. I know coming here has increased his self esteem & has improved his work ethic & focus at school and he is now willing to follow instructions and try hard at school , not something he did before starting at Sirota’s. It’s improved his desire to want to be successful. Thank you Master Sirota! Your studio is invaluable to the special needs community.”
Jennifer Wong

“Teacher Justyhn is very patient with my son who has autism. He is very attentive and organize to our changing schedule. He takes cares of my sons’ interest and always tries to include it in the excursuses to make them fun and keep him engaged. Additionally, he always checks in and provides through feedback of what occurred during the session.”
Carmen Chan

“I have been training here for around a decade. This is probably the best and most practical martial arts school in the Lower Mainland. I do not see the same discipline and quality of instruction from any other school. Training here allowed me to develop essential skills such as self-confidence and perseverance. I am grateful to my parents and school for introducing me to the school and martial arts, and to all my instructors—past and current—for guiding me through a journey that is far from over.”
Jasper He

“My only regret is not sending my son to Alchymy sooner. He gets all excited every time he goes to train there, amazing instructors and environment where children can enjoy learning martial arts and self-discipline.”
Kon H. Song

“My daughter has been with Sirota’s Alchymy for more than five years. We never expect her to get to certain level but she really enjoys going to classes. Master Sirota and the instructors are all very nice and encouraging. Highly recommended :)”
Chang Justy

“I signed up as an adult a few years ago and had a wonderful experience making my way up to my orange belt before moving to a different city. As a woman and inexperienced I was a little bit intimidated knowing I would be in groups with men more advanced then me but it was a 100% welcoming, supportive and comfortable environment. Staff and fellow students were all friendly and welcoming. Skills varied each class which kept things interesting and I had multiple options of which classes to attend that worked for my busy schedule, so I felt like I could do it and I got my money’s worth. Sirota’s teaches a lot of respect, perseverance, and acceptance. The work he does for the special needs community is world class. I by far recommend Sirota’s for all ages. You will not be disappointed.”
Michelle Pearce

“Sirota’s is the absolute best place for your children to learn, not only martial arts skills, but self-discipline, self-control, focus and respect. The instructors provide a wonderful balance of disciplined martial arts training and fun. Each class is filled with skills and exercises that are presented in a variety of fun and engaging ways. The children are never bored and are constantly learning and improving.
The skills your child will learn at Sirota’s will build confidence and help them in all areas of their life.”
Orrin Hargrave

“I never thought my daughter could participate in a martial arts class until your class. She was very anxious about joining the special needs/therapeutic class at first but the instructors helped her through that, and once she started the class she was fine. Now, she looks forward to class every time. She says she feels better physically and mentally and I have noticed a boost in her confidence. Thank-you!”
Marina Stamboulieh

“In Sirota’s Alchemy, along with self-defense learning skills, children gain self-confidence and always enjoy the class. My son almost 3 years ago never lose his enthusiasm to join the class.
Sirota Alchemy as coaches and management is a place of high confidence to always give the best to children. As parents we highly recommend it.”
Abby Jurdi

“My son has been taking private lessons with Mr Park For 3 years now. Mr Park is absolutely the reason why we refer this studio. He is kind and patient and expertly knows how to deal with a child’s frustration. Whether private of group lessons, I highly recommend Mr Park!”
Nyssa Pot

“Both of my children attend the Alchymy I found sirota’s Alchymy just by googling and it was close my house which was a bonus another bonus was there was a therapeutic class for my son !! My kids have been attending the Alchymy for more then several years now and they have learned so much life skills and martial arts at the same time. More so the life skills. Master Sirota and the other instructors have helped me so much with the kids. Anytime I needed help talking to the kids about their martial arts and addressing life skills they helped out ! This marital school has gone way above the call of duty on their teachings. There acknowledgement of the children is so wonderful. I have nothing but positive comments to say and with the pandemic they rose to the occasion delivering online classes and making it personable and still acknowledging the children where I was hesistant at first but after watching a couple of sessions I was impressed. I am very happy with the teachings my children are learning.”
Jamie Zuest

“My son has been taking private lessons with Mr Park For 3 years now. Mr Park is absolutely the reason why we refer this studio. He is kind and patient and expertly knows how to deal with a child’s frustration. Whether private of group lessons, I highly recommend Mr Park!”
Nyssa Pot

“Sirota’s Alchymy teaches traditional martial arts values of respect, discipline, and perseverance, but with patience and self-control. The entire team is excellent at guiding students to increased focus and confidence. They have just re-opened in-class training after having run online classes during April and May. They are keeping class sizes small and taking every precaution to keep the students safe.”
Noel Eaton

“We have watched our grandsons thrive in this program. The teaching and coaching is positive and respectful, and the expectations are high.”
Gail Roberts

“I am constantly impressed with the instructors at Sirota’s Alchymy. They are creative and patient while maintaining strong leadership and encouraging skill development. The kids love them and look forward to classes every week.”
Vicki Loh

“Outstanding coaching! My 9 year old loves them. He started from white bell to camo belt now. And still keep going.”
Raymond Chen

“My two boys come to Sirota’s for their Tiny Tigers and Special Needs classes. The teachers are amazing and my boys love to come for their classes. My oldest is on the spectrum and he learns to concentrate and focus his endless energy here, it’s a great place for him!”
Cherlaine Tabo

“Mr Park is an incredible teacher and it’s been amazing to watch my son’s progress over the past two years.”
Alec MacNeill Richardson

“Very good martial arts school and highly recommend the special need program.”
Alice Chan

“As an adult student, I feel this business is an integral part of our community experience. The self-defense instruction is always on point, and the instructors are always positive. Constructive comments over the years have allowed my son to become a much more confident young man and I have great respect for the work being done to assist those with physical and neurological disabilities achieve their goals. I am very grateful to have had the opportunity to discover Sirota’s Alchymy and would recommend it without reservation to anyone who wants to experience something new, work on self improvement or just have a great time.”
Daniel Hebert

“Our daughter who is 16 and in a wheelchair does the adapted martial arts program at Sirota’s Alchemy. She loves going to class every week. We’ve noticed that her strength and perseverance has increased. Master Michael is a fabulous instructor and very passionate about working with people with special needs. All of the other instructors seem great as well. Would highly recommend Sirotas Alchemy!”
Chris Hall

“Very positive environment. Kids friendly! Instructors are kind and patient.”
Kelly Tan

“Excellent programs for young kids.”
Garth Jones

“And now with online classes!
Myself and my daughter have been students for many years, and in my view the Alchymy truly lived up to its motto of providing martial arts training for everyone, whether you are just starting out or a black belt. The curriculum is very well rounded and includes both World Taekwondo Federation (Kukkiwon) program and also Hapkido (Korean self-defense) skills. The instructors have been with the school for many years and really know their stuff and each individual student, so that even group sessions feel like personalized training. Convenient schedule of classes for students of various levels and ages. And now even online live classes are offered through Zoom, which are working really well!”
Alex Makhanko

“Though only 6.5 years old, my son hadn’t shown much interest in social activities/environments, including school. I’m so glad one of his Grade 1 teachers recommended Sirota’s Alchymy. He is really enthusiastic about the place and its teachers, he’s loving the environment and his focus & interest in other things are flourishing. Here’s to hoping it will be a long-lasting relationship :)”
Francesa

“Great atmosphere for kids to learn. My daughter been attending classes since she was 4 . The teachers are great and very patient with the students.”
Jack Leung

“Sirota Alchemy has been a blessing in my sons life. My son has made friends and everyone treats all as one- no difference because of disability. They believe in abilities and it takes special people which they are. I highly recommend them.”
Preet Brar

“Excellent instructors (male and female). The instruction is positive and empowering. They recognize each students individual needs and instruct accordingly.”
Theresa Haas

“Fantastic environment. We brought our son into classes when he was 4 and in a few short months we noticed a huge change his ability to listen, focus and persevere.”
Robert Choquette