Known for exemplary work in the fitness and recovery space, Michelle Yong is the CEO and founder of Core Collective; an all-inclusive fitness and wellness enclave that doubles as a unique co-working space for working professionals.

With her brand, Yong is building an environment that amalgamates personal training and functional rehabilitation—tailored to every individual’s needs.

As a changemaker, what drives you at your core?

At my core, I am a creator, caregiver and explorer, which means I love developing things out of raw opportunity, enhancing the well-being of others and charting new paths. I am energised by seeing people transform and believe that change begins with the environments we live in. Consequently, I am passionate about creating spaces that uplift and inspire. My work at Core Collective, a fitness and wellness co-working platform, and Aurum Land, a boutique property development company, is more than just about providing the best physical environment; it is about cultivating a culture of well-being, inclusivity and growth.

What is the one achievement to date you are proudest of and why?

Since Core Collective’s inception in 2018, one of my proudest achievements has been pioneering a first-of-its kind co-working model which aims to help aspiring fitness and wellness professionals start and grow their businesses without the high capital expenditure and operational burden usually associated with it. Seeing this vision come to life—from concept to a thriving, supportive community—has been incredibly fulfilling.

For example, when our professionals tell me that without their time at Core Collective, they would not have been able to become their own boss, let alone grow a team and scale a business. Or when a client tells me that she was unable to walk up one flight of stairs but can now climb a mountain and asks to bring our company banner to take a photo at the summit in celebration. These instances make my heart sing.

What do you believe is the power of wellness when it comes to improving health and psyche?

I recently had the privilege of attending a series of Vedanta talks, which is a philosophy for living a dynamic life of action while enjoying perfect peace and happiness within. It explains that while most people seek satiation and fulfillment from the external world, the answer lies within oneself.

How have you overcome the most significant challenges you have encountered in your journey?

The years in the immediate aftermath of COVID-19 were the most challenging period for me, both professionally and personally as I battled to navigate my businesses through the pandemic while caring for my newborn son. I was also trying to help my three older children adapt to the new post-pandemic world. When I was close to breaking point, I came clean with my board and my leadership team and told them about my mental and emotional burnout. They all rushed to my aid. I believe that it is a testament to how purpose and values-based leadership results in high employee engagement and retention, even in the most trying times like the pandemic. And I have seen how being vulnerable builds trust and inspires others to also reciprocate vulnerability. This, thus, builds further trust.

Looking forward, what is one change you want to see in your industry?

I would love to see more businesses thrive and flourish in my industries which have seen too many business closures post-pandemic. Could the answer be in cooperation instead of competition?