Ong Bee Yan

Modelling was never on the cards for the once camera‑shy Ong Bee Yan. But in 2019, when she was 63 years old, an unexpected opportunity came along: A local brand approached her to model its tie-dye shirts. Despite her initial reservations about her looks, Ong saw it as an opportunity to step outside of her comfort zone.

Today, the 68-year-old is a sought-after model, who’s motivated by a desire to push boundaries. While on set, she “chooses a different persona, [transforming into] a different person” as a means to gain confidence, empowering both herself and others. She shares the images of her work on Instagram @grey_evolution, using it as a platform to advocate for positive self-image among seniors. Fashion, to her, is about embracing your individuality at any age. “It’s a way of showing your uniqueness and personality.”

Ong founded Fashion for Cancer last year in memory of her son, Chia Rong Liang, who passed away from pancreatic cancer shortly after modelling at its inaugural charity fashion show.