Meet Kateryna Karasyk | Experienced MBA Executive, Business Mentor, Sign Industry Expert, and Woman Business Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kateryna Karasyk and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kateryna, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
A Story of Growth and Resilience
My name is Kateryna Karasyk, and my journey is one of perseverance, ambition, and continuous learning. I was born and raised in Ukraine, where I developed a strong foundation in business, leadership, and entrepreneurship. My background in visual communications and marketing, coupled with an Executive MBA from the International Institute of Business (MIM Kyiv), has shaped my career and personal values.
With over 17 years of experience in business ownership, management, and consulting, I have learned the importance of adaptability, strategic thinking, and resilience. My upbringing instilled in me a deep appreciation for hard work and self-improvement, driving me to seek new challenges and opportunities.
In 2017, I moved to the United States, embracing the challenge of expanding my business into a new market. This transition reinforced my belief that success is built on continuous learning and a willingness to step outside one’s comfort zone. I furthered my education at the Graduate Start-Up School “Y-Combinator” in 2018 and Orange Coast College in 2019, refining my expertise in marketing, sales, and business development.
Today, I run Elephant Signage & Display, Intl., specializing in visual marketing solutions, as well as Laguna Beach Cleaning Service, a company I established to sustain financial stability while growing my primary business. My experiences have taught me that every challenge presents a new opportunity, and I am passionate about helping others navigate their own paths to success.
I strongly believe in the power of collaboration and mentorship. As a leader and active member of professional organizations like the International Association of Women (IAW) and Mission Viejo Chamber of Commerce, I am committed to fostering growth, sharing knowledge, and creating opportunities for others.
The three principles that guide me in life and business are:
1. Life is what you make it.
2. A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.
3. A problem shared is a problem halved.
These principles have helped me navigate challenges, build successful businesses, and support those around me in achieving their goals. I am always open to new opportunities, innovation, and meaningful connections that drive progress and success.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Building a Business with Vision and Resilience
My journey as an entrepreneur has been shaped by determination, adaptability, and a relentless commitment to excellence. I currently run two businesses: Elephant Signage & Display, Intl., specializing in visual communication and signage solutions, and Laguna Beach Cleaning Service, which provides high-standard residential and commercial cleaning services.
What Sets Us Apart
At Elephant Signage & Display, Intl., we offer full-service signage solutions, from concept and design to fabrication, permitting, and installation. What makes us different is our strategic approach to branding and visual marketing. We don’t just create signs; we create impactful brand experiences that help businesses increase visibility, attract customers, and enhance their brand identity. With a deep understanding of materials, engineering, and compliance requirements, we ensure our products stand out both aesthetically and functionally.
For Laguna Beach Cleaning Service, the focus is on efficiency, reliability, and excellence. We specialize in post-construction cleanup, vacation rental maintenance, and deep cleaning for high-end properties. Unlike traditional cleaning companies, we incorporate advanced equipment, eco-friendly solutions, and meticulous attention to detail to provide superior results. Our team is trained to deliver efficiency without compromising quality, ensuring every space is left spotless and refreshed.
The Journey to Success: Overcoming Challenges
Building a business is never easy, and my path has been no exception. After successfully establishing my career in Ukraine, I took on the challenge of expanding into the U.S. market, which meant starting from scratch in a competitive and unfamiliar environment.
Some of the biggest challenges I faced included:
* Navigating a new business landscape with different regulations, industry standards, and customer expectations.
* Building a network from the ground up, without the established reputation I had in my home country.
* Balancing financial sustainability—with an emerging business, revenue wasn’t always consistent, leading me to launch Laguna Beach Cleaning Service as an additional income stream.
* Managing operations and teams across multiple industries, requiring adaptability, organization, and effective leadership.
To overcome these obstacles, I focused on:
* Continuous learning—I pursued further education at Orange Coast College and participated in the Graduate Start-Up School “Y-Combinator” to strengthen my business acumen.
* Strategic networking—I became actively involved in the International Association of Women (IAW), the Mission Viejo Chamber of Commerce, and the International Sign Association (ISA) to build meaningful professional relationships.
* Relentless persistence—Despite setbacks, I remained solution-oriented, adapting to challenges with innovation and efficiency.
Lessons Learned & My Message to the World
Through this journey, I’ve learned that success is not about avoiding challenges but about overcoming them with determination and adaptability. The key lessons I carry forward are:
* Resilience is everything—Every setback is an opportunity to grow and innovate.
* Relationships matter—Building a strong network of mentors, clients, and industry peers is invaluable.
* Excellence is the best strategy—Delivering outstanding quality, reliability, and customer service is what sustains long-term success.
* Diversification is key—By running two businesses, I’ve ensured financial stability while expanding my professional reach.
I want the world to know that my story is one of bold ambition, perseverance, and the courage to reinvent myself. Whether through impactful branding solutions or creating cleaner, more comfortable environments, my goal is always to deliver excellence and create value.
I believe that anything is possible with the right mindset, strategic action, and a strong support system—and I hope my journey inspires others to pursue their dreams fearlessly.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
The Ultimate Southern California & Carmel-by-the-Sea Getaway
If my best friend were visiting for a week-long trip, I would take them on a curated adventure through Laguna Beach, Mission Viejo, Carmel-by-the-Sea, San Diego, and Beverly Hills—blending coastal charm, luxury experiences, fine dining, and breathtaking landscapes.

Why This Trip is the Ultimate Experience
This itinerary showcases the best of Southern California and Carmel-by-the-Sea—from beachfront relaxation to high-end luxury, breathtaking nature to world-class dining.

🌊 Laguna Beach: Artsy coastal town with pristine beaches.
🌳 Mission Viejo: Hidden gems, serene lakes, and local charm.
🏡 Carmel-by-the-Sea: A storybook village with art, wine, and stunning nature.
🏄‍♀️ San Diego: Laid-back paradise with adventure, food, and ocean views.
✨ Beverly Hills: Luxury, glamour, and Hollywood history.

This journey blends adventure, culture, fine dining, and unforgettable scenery, ensuring my best friend gets a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My journey has been profoundly shaped by the unwavering support, mentorship, and encouragement of many incredible individuals and organizations.
First and foremost, I want to dedicate my deepest gratitude to my husband, Alex Karasyk, and my sons. Their belief in me, constant encouragement, and steadfast support have been the foundation of my success. Through every challenge and new venture, Alex has stood by my side, offering guidance, strength, and motivation. His partnership has not only enriched my personal life but has also played a significant role in my professional journey. My sons inspire me daily, reminding me of the importance of perseverance, ambition, and leading by example.
A pivotal influence in my professional development was my education at the International Management Institute (MIM-Kyiv)—the first business school in Ukraine and the former USSR, established in 1989. Earning my Executive MBA there provided me with invaluable knowledge, strategic thinking skills, and a global business perspective that has guided me throughout my career.
Additionally, my mentors and business network have played an essential role in my growth. Organizations such as the International Association of Women (IAW), Orange Coast College, and the Mission Viejo Chamber of Commerce have provided exceptional opportunities for professional development, leadership, and connections with like-minded professionals.
A special acknowledgment goes to my team at Elephant Signage & Display, Intl. Their dedication, hard work, and shared vision continue to be the driving force behind our success. I am truly grateful for their commitment to excellence and innovation.
Success is never achieved alone—it is built upon collaboration, inspiration, and shared wisdom. I am deeply thankful for everyone who has contributed to my journey, and I remain committed to paying it forward by empowering others to reach their own goals.

Website: https://www.elephantsignage.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elephant_usa

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/37250124/admin/page-posts/published/

Twitter: https://x.com/Elephant_USA

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElephantSignageDisplay.Int/

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/elephant-signage-and-display-int-mission-viejo-3

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@elephantsignagedisplaysint6610

Image Credits
No image credits applicable.