Today we are catching up with Fyn Yong Ning, one of the 7 talented and inspiring women from all walks of life who are hoping to be crowned Miss Universe Singapore 2023 at the iconic Amber Lounge during the Singapore Grand Prix Weekend on 16 Sept with special guest Lil John.
So, Fyn why don’t you tell us a little about yourself?
I’m a typical third culture kid who grew up across Shanghai, Los Angeles, Singapore and London. My name Fyn is actually the initials of my passport name, Foo Yong Ning. I wanted an English name as I’m American educated but still wanted to preserve my Chinese Singaporean roots.
We all have motivations, mine usually around good coffee, but what was your key motivation for entering Miss Universe Singapore?
I’m a producer by trade so it’s crazy to experience what it’s like on the other side of the camera! My key motivation was really to challenge myself and step out of my comfort zone. Though parts of the experience have been nerve-wracking, I’m having a lot of fun and learning so much about myself in ways I never would have imagined.
As part of the program, you recently went on the National Finalist Trip to Vietnam at Furama Resort Denang, with the Australian contestants. What was the experience like?
It was a rollercoaster – a fun and thrilling one, of course! Being in front of the camera professionally for the first time, it was daunting to be around so many amazing girls who are either part-time or full-time models. It’s easy for me to doubt why and what I’m doing here. Once I started being friends with the girls and consciously reminding myself to lean into the experience, everything became smooth sailing.
What would you say was the highlight of your trip?
As cliché as it sounds, the highlight of my trip was really the friendships that were forged. There was one night where a few of us girls stayed up till 3am just to chat and hang out. Laughs that hurt our belly paired with the most genuine conversations – I wouldn’t trade this once-in-a-lifetime experience for anything else.
With everyone bringing their own unique and individual flair to the program, what is something that sets you apart from the other finalists?
My international background and my willingness to try something I don’t have ample experience in.
Singapore is a multicultural society with people from many different backgrounds and walks of life. As Miss Universe Singapore, how would you use your platform to bring people together?
Singapore is a highly competitive society with a big focus on finance and STEM. I’d love to use my platform to facilitate more conversations around women and the hardships we face when it comes to balancing our career, family and self.
Tell us something you’re passionate about and why?
I studied journalism at university and back then I did an extensive profile on a woman who was an ex-convict in Los Angeles and her journey to reintegrate into society. There is a lot of negative stigma that comes with being an ex-convict and I think everyone deserves a second chance. Reintegration is an area that is often overlooked and key to breaking the prison cycle.
To finish up the interview we have a few quick questions
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
New York City.
What would your perfect weekend look like?
A morning hike/bike ride followed by brunch with friends.
What makes you laugh out loud?
Memes!
