Long before she founded her own modelling academy and became the National Director for Miss Universe Malaysia 2024, Eleen Yong was a shy student whose height (179cm) caught the attention of almost everyone – except herself.
Today, she’s the woman behind Elpis Models Academy, a space built to guide aspiring models – not just in how to walk, but in how to stand tall in life.
Growing up, she never imagined she’d walk international runways or mentor aspiring models. But when teachers and even a university lecturer told her, “You don’t need to study anymore – you should be a model,” something shifted.
“I was still very shy back then,” she recalls, laughing. “But so many people from secondary school up till college encouraged me to try. So I thought, why not?”
That quiet moment of courage, the choice to step out of her comfort zone became the spark for a lifelong journey of reinvention, one that would empower not only herself, but countless others.
From model to mentor
Eleen’s modelling career began around 2008, after she graduated from university. With no clear roadmap, she stumbled through her early days in the industry – learning the hard way what it took to make it. That experience planted the seed for Elpis Models Academy, her initiative to provide aspiring models with the mentorship she never had.
“I spent a lot of time exploring. Nobody really guided me, especially when I wanted to go overseas,” she explains. “I realised many Malaysians have the dream of becoming a model but they don’t know how to start. That’s why I created Elpis, so they don’t have to walk the path blindly like I did.”
But Elpis became more than just a school for models. It evolved into a space where people learned to build confidence from the ground up – literally, starting with how to walk in high heels.
“Many are shy, insecure, or don’t believe in themselves at all when they first join,” Eleen shares. “But once they start mastering skills like posture, grooming, or walking with elegance, their confidence naturally grows.”
When asked what one small but powerful thing anyone can do daily to feel more confident, Eleen doesn’t hesitate: “Stand straight,” she says. Because sometimes, confidence begins not in grand gestures, but in the quiet discipline of how we carry ourselves.
Redefining the modelling industry with diversity
In a world where modelling was once defined by narrow beauty standards, the usual tall and thin, Eleen is reshaping those definitions. Through her academy, she embraces diversity in body type, personality, and background.
“Everyone has their own uniqueness,” she says. “It’s about embracing what makes you different. You don’t need to be tall and thin anymore. Even brands now want models who reflect their diverse customers.”
This isn’t just industry talk, it’s a reflection of a societal shift. In an age where authenticity matters more than airbrushing, Eleen teaches her students that self-acceptance isn’t just part of the process; it’s the foundation.
“Modelling isn’t about perfection,” she explains. “It’s about presence. It’s about owning your uniqueness.”
Her approach doesn’t just change the lives of aspiring models, it’s reshaping how confidence is defined. Beauty doesn’t come from fitting a mold but from standing in your truth – even if it starts with trembling knees.
Navigating setbacks and finding growth through resilience
While coaching gave Eleen a new purpose, stepping into the national spotlight as last year’s Miss Universe Malaysia National Director required her to confront her biggest personal hurdle: public speaking.
“I became a model because I didn’t want to talk,” she says with a smile. “But when I accepted the role, I had to speak in front of hundreds, with so many eyes watching me. It was terrifying.”
Still, she saw the opportunity as bigger than her fears. “This role lets me empower more women. The voice is louder, the impact is bigger. So I accepted it.”
That resilience didn’t come overnight. Like the models she now mentors, Eleen built it over time through rejection, mistakes, and the occasional moment of self-doubt.
“Setbacks? I’m already used to them,” she admits. “But now when they happen, I remind myself: everyone will surely face setbacks when doing big things. You just learn how to do better next time.”
She also encourages her students to read The Secret, a self-help book that shaped her own thinking. “When you get rejected, don’t sulk. Reflect. Ask, ‘What can I improve?’ That’s how you grow.”
Eleen’s ultimate goal isn’t just to produce top models – it’s to guide people toward their better selves. Through every boot camp, every training, and every quiet pep talk behind the scenes, she’s passing on a legacy of confidence, grit, and quiet courage.
“I want those I’ve guided to believe they can surpass themselves. That they’re more than what they think,” she says. “That’s the legacy I want to leave.”
Her story isn’t just about the modelling industry. It’s about the universal journey of renewal: of facing fears, rewriting old narratives, and stepping boldly into a future you didn’t think was possible.
Whether you’re putting on high heels or simply standing a little taller today, Eleen’s journey is a reminder that reinvention isn’t reserved for the runway – it starts with one brave decision at a time.
Read more about inspiring individuals here.
Photography by Imran Sulaiman