A YOUNG girl’s love of dressing up in beautiful outfits has turned into an international win.
What began as a simple push from her parents to explore modelling has paid off for seven-year-old Elnara Asha, who recently emerged winner of the I Am Model Search International 2026 competition in Korat, Thailand.
Held last month, the contest drew more than 50 participants from 20 countries.
Elnara, the second of three siblings, stood out not just for her looks but for her confidence, strong catwalk presence, professionalism and charisma on the runway – bringing pride to Sabah and Malaysia.
“I was nervous and scared, but with guidance and support from my friends and parents, as well as catwalk coach Yurie Berto, I learnt to compose myself, apply catwalk and posing techniques, and just have fun,” she said.
Elnara said she plans to continue improving her walking, posing, styling and facial expressions for different outfits and pageants, while also keeping her focus on her studies.
“I want to be better and go further. I love fashion, I love doing the catwalks, and most of all I love wearing pretty dresses and getting all dolled up,” she said.
Her parents, Nazira Ashraff from Kiulu, Tamparuli, and Mohd Fauzi Hanif from Beaufort, both 38, said they take a balanced approach in supporting their daughter, ensuring she is guided without being pressured.
Nazira, who runs a pet shop business, said the achievement has boosted their confidence that Elnara’s modelling journey could go further with the right platform and support.
“She already has the right mindset and a love for all things beautiful.
“She is disciplined and professional at her age, and we are encouraged to let her explore and see where the journey takes her,” she said.
Before her international win, Elnara took part in cultural and local pageants such as Unduk Dazanak and The Heritage in Kota Kinabalu, wearing outfits sewn by her grandmother, a seamstress.
Some of her costumes were also sponsored by well-known local designer December Teo.
“That was a huge honour for us,” Nazira said.
With one pageant behind her, Elnara has already begun preparing for her next challenge – The Catwalk Master Asia, scheduled to be held at PICC Putrajaya on Feb 8.
