The GRAZIA Game Changers initiative recognises the people who have been creating meaningful impact in Singapore and throughout Asia. This year, in celebration of International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month, we invited the honorees from our inaugural edition to pass the torch to a new class of talented and spirited individuals. Meet Shavonne Wong, a champion of technology, artist and fashion photographer who founded the first virtual modelling agency in Singapore.
What does the term “game changer” mean to you?
Shavonne Wong (SW): To me, it’s about making a big impact and doing something that actually shakes things up. In my world, that means mixing technology and art in new ways that challenge how we think about digital stuff and creativity.
How did you discover your purpose in life?
SW: I just do what I love, starting with photography. Getting into 3D virtual modelling and the NFT space felt like a natural progression. I just found things I enjoyed doing and did it a lot.
What are the qualities that you most value in people? How do you embody them yourself?
SW: Being real, being creative and ambitious, and getting where others are coming from. I try to keep it honest, push the envelope in my work, and really listen and reflect the world around me in what I create.
How would you say you’ve played your part to be a game changer in the industry you’re in?
SW: I’ve embraced change, adapted when needed, and committed to learning continuously. This approach has allowed me to innovate and bring fresh ideas to the table.
What have been the highlights and major challenges of your journey?
SW: Some highlights for me include working with awesome brands like Bang & Olufsen, and getting some recognition for my work. There were also numerous challenges, from navigating the nascent NFT market to overcoming scepticism about the value of digital art. I overcame each hurdle with perseverance, constant learning, and a strong support network.
What are some changes you’d like to see in your industry and how would you see your role in influencing them?
SW: I’m keen on seeing the NFT world become more inclusive and diverse. I also hope for more balanced conversations, where people are open to discussing complex issues thoughtfully. My role involves advocating for these changes through my work, collaborations, and platform, aiming to inspire others to do the same.
What keeps you motivated and passionate about what you do?
SW: The dynamic and constantly changing nature of this field is what excites me most as an artist. To me, the more technology innovates, the more tools I have at my disposal to create works I would have otherwise not been able to.
What is the most valuable piece of advice or life lesson that you’ve learned?
SW: Asking is free. Don’t stop yourself from pursuing opportunities because you didn’t know you could just ask for them.
What do you hope people take away from your journey as a game changer
SW: I want people to understand that changing the game isn’t as daunting as it might appear. While it may seem like I’ve made some big, bold moves, the reality of my path is made up of small, incremental steps from being open to learning and willing to experiment with new ideas.
PHOTOGRAPHY ZANTZ HAN
STYLING KELLY HSU
ART DIRECTION MARISA XIN
PRODUCER BRYAN GOH
HAIR AND MAKEUP SHA SHAMSI/MAKEUPARTISTINC, USING BURBERRY BEAUTY AND PERCY & REED
HAIR AND MAKEUP ASSISTANT EUNICE YONG/MAKEUPARTISTINC
PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANT YAM SIN YEAN
STYLING ASSISTANT CARLYN SOO