Siblings Celebrating Academic Excellence: Ethan & Sachi Penha
At First Tee – Metropolitan New York, we believe that the lessons learned through sports extend far beyond the golf course. We are proud to celebrate the accomplishments of Ethan and Sachi Penha, whose dedication to education, personal growth, and community impact continue to inspire those around them.
Most recently, Ethan earned his Master of Public Health (MPH) degree in Public Health Policy and Management from the CUNY Graduate School of Public Health & Health Policy. His academic journey reflects years of hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to creating positive change. For his capstone project, Ethan focused on identifying strategies to assess and strengthen a telehealth intervention serving migrants throughout New York State. His research explored innovative approaches to expanding healthcare access for underserved communities, a topic that has become increasingly important in today’s healthcare landscape. As he begins the next chapter of his career, Ethan hopes to continue advancing equitable and accessible healthcare solutions that improve outcomes for individuals and families across diverse communities.
His sister, Sachi, has similarly distinguished herself through her academic achievements and passion for research. After earning a Bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience from the University of Pittsburgh, Sachi went on to complete her Master’s degree in Psychology at St. John’s University. Alongside her studies, Sachi has embraced opportunities to broaden her perspective through travel, exploring destinations throughout Europe, Central America, the Caribbean, and across the United States. These experiences have deepened her understanding of different cultures and communities while further strengthening her academic and professional aspirations. Today, Sachi is pursuing neuroscience research opportunities as she prepares to apply for doctoral programs in Clinical Neuropsychology. Her goal is to contribute meaningful research that advances understanding within the field and supports individuals navigating neurological and psychological challenges.
From First Swing to Future Leader | Oyin Opawuyi
Oyin Opawuyi’s journey with First Tee – Met NY didn’t begin with a love for golf — it began with an opportunity. Born in Lagos, Nigeria and moving to the United States at a young age, Oyin attended a small charter school with limited access to sports. It was not until First Tee – Met NY partnered with her school that she was introduced to golf for the very first time — stepping onto the course in third grade with no prior experience and no expectation of what the game would become in her life. What started as something new quickly became something meaningful. Through First Tee, Oyin found more than just a sport. She found a community, a support system, and a space where she could grow — not only as a player, but as a person. During some of the most pivotal moments in her life, including the isolation of COVID and the pressures of applying to high school, golf became a constant — a place of stability, connection, and confidence.
With the support of her coaches and the Path to College program, Oyin was able to attend Gill St. Bernard’s School, where she discovered a love for learning and unlocked opportunities she once thought were out of reach. Now, as a graduating senior and aspiring neuroscience major, Oyin’s relationship with the game has evolved. While she does not necessarily see golf as a career, she sees it as something even more powerful — a lifelong tool for connection, growth, and opportunity. And perhaps most importantly, she’s come full circle.
From participant to coach, Oyin now spends her time mentoring younger students, helping them build confidence, develop skills, and find joy in the game — just as she once did. Because for her, First Tee is not just where she learned golf. It is where she learned how to grow, how to persevere, and how to give back.