Qualifications: Professional Dancer on Dancing with the Stars.

Personal History: Maksim Chmerkovskiy was born on January 17th, 1980 to Aleksandr and Larisa Chmerkovskiy. Maks has a younger brother named Valentin (Val for short), who is also a dancer.

Maksim's parents brought him to his first dance class at the age of four. It is well-known fact to those who know him, that if you had asked Maks at 4 what he wanted to be when he grows up, he would have most likely said, an Olympic swimmer or a soccer player. Sports and competition have always run deep in his blood. He is a born athlete. For as long as he can remember, he has trained to be the best. 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 great shape and started dancing again. Maks invited his doctor to his first competition after the accident. Needless to say, his doctor was speechless. Because of that experience, Maksim learned the importance of dedication and desire to succeed. He understands that success is about what you put into the effort.

The next biggest challenge Maksim had to face was immigrating to America, and the financial and language barriers that came along with the change. The entire Chmerkovskiy family moved to the US to start a new life and give Maks and Val more opportunities. Both of them appreciated the efforts his parents made for their future. They are a very close knit family, whose strength stems from the 150% respect and support they have for each other's success.

Now, Maks is still at heart that same determined kid who was willing to give his all to succeed. It defines the man he is today. Fortunately, he did focus on dancing. Maks has grown into being a renowned choreographer, successful business owner, and a national TV celebrity on Dancing With the Stars. He is the founder of Rising Stars Academy, a dance studio that focused on the youth and their pursuit of Ballroom Dance excellence. He a co-founded Dance With Me Dance Studios with his father, Sasha Chmerkovskiy and long-time family friend, Jhanna Volynets. He also choreographed La Reve in Wynn Las Vegas. But he is most known for being one of the professional dancers in ABC's Dancing With The Stars.