On following your dreams — Mike Sjenks

Mike Sjenks Interview

From NBA aspirations to building a fulfilling life in Europe, Mike Sjenks shares his journey of passion and reinvention.

Mike understands better than most that life can take unexpected turns. For him, these surprises should be embraced rather than feared.

Born and raised on the beautiful island of Curaçao, Sjenks began playing basketball at a young age. By 17, he had earned a scholarship to the United States, where he dreamt of turning his passion into a profession by joining the NBA.

After graduating with a degree in physical therapy, Mike moved to Amsterdam, only to discover that the European basketball scene wasn’t quite what he had imagined. This realization led him to explore the craft of barbering—a pivot that turned into a successful career. Working alongside some of Amsterdam’s most respected barbers, Mike eventually took on the role of managing Cut Throat, a renowned barbershop in the heart of the city.

For Mike, this career shift was a natural evolution, aligning with his innate desire to be of service. Each client offers an opportunity not just to transform their appearance but to lift their spirits, creating space for honest, meaningful conversations.

The flexibility of barbering has allowed Mike to maintain basketball as a passion, rather than a profession, preserving the joy and freedom that comes with playing the game on his own terms.

"As long as you follow your gut and heart, you'll find your passion and what makes you happy. That's the greatest key in life," Mike told us.