She Rises << Stories Of Strength> Spark The Future
I am Michelle Koong, the Champion of Mrs Charming Malaysia International 2015. I hold a Bachelor of Business Degree majoring in International Business and Marketing from CSU Australia.
Born and bred in the vibrant city of Kuala Lumpur, I grew up in a family that practiced a strict moral regime. I am extremely grateful to my parents, who have nurtured me to be an individual who is principle-oriented, disciplined, independent and resilient.
A typical LEO in nature, being able to stay result-oriented during my academic years in school and by holding various important positions helped polish me up to lead, focus and excel in both academic and co-curricular activities. I was humbled by the unequivocal trust and support rendered to me by my teachers, school coaches and the respective authorities, giving me tremendous freehand and confidence to accomplish various challenges and tasks during my school days.
My work experience as an Air Stewardess at Singapore Airlines during my younger years enabled me to travel around the world and also gained immense exposure that has broadened my perspective on life. I learned about diplomacy, tolerance and liberation by having the opportunities to assimilate and understand different people, cultures and traditions around the world, making my career then not just fun, but also educational.
Besides, my perseverance to pursue academic excellence and, in return, obtaining a scholarship in tertiary education further shaped me to be a person who believes in quality and hard work.
Fast-forward, I’m thankful for God’s blessing for having a wonderful family. Motherhood made me a stronger person to protect, nurture and care for my offspring. I hope with my dedication and guidance, they will be able to become happy as well as wonderful people to serve society. But having said that, I do believe one should continue to learn or pursue one’s passion in life, regardless of age, marital status or any societal position.
In 2015, I had the privilege of winning Champion on an established beauty pageant platform, clinching 2 additional subsidiary titles. In contrast to my corporate world, I have been able to indulge in many different things, such as participating in social events, helping with charitable activities, as a coach, judge, model, singer, actress etc. However, I reckon stepping into this vibrant industry does not confine yourself to just being a socialite, expanding your network or making a business portfolio.
Instead, I constantly remind myself I’m blessed to be given a humble influence to empower. I emphasize continuous learning no matter how far I go or how many milestones I have achieved. Love and respect the people who appreciate me and whom I appreciate. Be respectable and stay accountable, set a positive example, and be inspired in order to inspire.
Throughout the years, I have been grateful to have received recognitions and obtained Ambassadorships from many different entities. All these credentials motivate and solidify my objectives in life to stay unstoppable.
In addition to the above mentioned, it’s a pleasure now that I have opportunities to collaborate with different organizations to promote the pride and culture of our own country. Besides handling my financial portfolios, I have established a team consisting of Beauty Queens, the ‘Elegante Modelle’, who share kindred spirits and similar ideologies with a mission to spread positive vibes around. I wish to continue to advocate and to empower more women out there to live life to the fullest. Do what we love, love what we do, but for the right reasons and at the right time, and truly reflect the global perspective of Women’s Empowerment.