My Journey: From No English to RN Leader 📘 Read my story and see how your journey can transform too.

My Story — From No English to RN Leader and 
Founder of Porto Helli LLC 

Ten years ago, I stepped off a plane in New York City with my husband and young son. 
I didn’t know much words of English. Everything around me felt loud, fast, and unfamiliar. I 
remember standing in the middle of the city, holding my son’s hand, thinking, 
“How will I ever start over here?” 
But something deep inside me whispered, “One step at a time.” 
That became my philosophy — for language, nursing, and life. 

A New Beginning 
Back home in Ukraine, I had a comfortable life and a career as a wine production director. I 
understood leadership, teamwork, and dedication — but not the U.S. healthcare system, 
and certainly not English medical terminology. 
When my mother became ill with cancer, I witnessed firsthand the compassion and skill of 
nurses who cared for her. 
That experience changed everything. 
I realized that healing people — not products — was my true calling. 
So, I decided to become a nurse in a new country. 
It wasn’t easy. I attended English classes while raising a toddler, working nights, and 
studying medical terms, I couldn’t yet pronounce. I failed some tests, cried more than once, 
but I never stopped trying. 

Finding My Voice and My Purpose 
When I entered nursing school at BMCC, I was terrified. 
I questioned myself constantly: Am I too old to start over? Will anyone understand me? 
But I focused on progress, not perfection. I made flashcards, studied between shifts, and 
practiced English by reading nursing books aloud. 
Little by little, confidence replaced fear. 
Eventually, I earned a 3.94 GPA and became a student mentor for others who were 
struggling. I discovered that helping others believe in themselves gave me even more joy 
than my own success.

That was the seed of what would later become Porto Helli LLC — a place where 
mentorship, compassion, and healing could live together. 

Becoming a Nurse, Becoming a Leader 
My first job as a registered nurse came with long shifts, challenging patients, and endless 
lessons. 
But every experience taught me something about teamwork, empathy, and leadership. 
I listened to my patients, learned from every mistake, and treated every day as an 
opportunity to grow. 
Today, I’m a Registered Nurse Unit Manager in a subacute rehabilitation and nursing 
center. 
I lead with the same values that carried me through my own journey: 
Empathy 
Accountability 
Education 
Respect 
As a leader, I don’t just manage nurses — I mentor them. 
I teach them that true care starts with mindfulness, teamwork, and compassion for 
themselves as much as for their patients. 

Porto Helli LLC — My Heart in a Brand 
Porto Helli LLC was born from a vision — to blend healthcare, mentorship, and holistic 
wellness. 
The name reflects peace, balance, and transformation. 
Through Porto Helli, I help nurses and communities grow through three pillars: 
Empowering New Nurses – building confidence through mentorship and education. 
Supporting Communities – teaching practical skills and emotional intelligence. 
Inspiring Healthy Living – combining evidence-based nursing with holistic wellness, 
including aromatherapy and lifestyle care. 
It’s more than a business; it’s my mission to give others the guidance I once needed. 
 
For Every Immigrant Nurse and Dreamer

If you’ve ever doubted yourself — I understand. 
If you’ve ever started from zero — I’ve been there. 
If you’ve ever felt unseen or unheard — I see you. 
You can learn a new language. 
You can change careers. 
You can rebuild your life and become a leader, no matter where you started. 
My journey is proof that courage grows when you take one small step at a time. 
I started without English, without confidence, without a clear path. 
Now I lead, teach, and create opportunities for others to rise — because I believe that 
empowered nurses heal the world.

A Message from My Heart 
Every day, I remind myself — the same way I remind my mentees — that confidence is not 
something you find; it’s something you build. 
It’s built through late-night studying, small victories, and quiet determination. 
I created Porto Helli LLC to be a safe space for learning, support, and wellness — where 
nurses, caregivers, and families can grow together. 
Wherever you are in your journey, remember: 
You’re capable. 
You’re needed. 
You’re stronger than you think.

Welcome to Porto Helli LLC — where healing, growth, and purpose begin. 
— With love, 
Olga Krotova, RN 
Founder of Porto Helli LLC 
Empowering New Nurses | Supporting Communities | Inspiring Healthy Living

© 2025 Porto Helli LLC. All rights reserved. 
For educational and mentorship purposes only. Not medical advice.