Russian Time Magazine

Elena Yanchur: The Golden Girl of San Francisco

People see what they want to go after their dreams; grasp the reins of the horse of destiny and ride daringly through all of life’s challenges.


Elena’s lust for life and her glowing aura of warmth is infectious to San Francisco where, in 2018, she won the grand title of Miss Russian San Francisco.
What is your greatest achievement?

My greatest achievement was moving to realize my true potential. I believe this is my greatest achievement thus far.

Why did you decide to the U.S.?

I decided to build yourself up from the ground, acquire new skills, and, most importantly, survive!

You are currently running a successful real-estate business. How did the idea of creating a business unfold?

After I moved here, I was thinking about what sort of job I would like. The goal was to provide exemplary service.

What advice would you give to someone about success?

First, the definition of success is different for everyone and my definition isn’t the stereotypical, materialistic one. I believe that a successful person isn’t someone who makes a lot of money; it’s someone who has goals and is moving step-by-step in the right direction to step out of your comfort zone. Even if you only take one small step in the right direction, after two years, you will have covered a lot of distance. It’s all about consistency and moving forward.

Why did you decide to compete in Miss Russian San Francisco in 2018?

I saw a post from Karina, the founder and producer of Miss Russian San Francisco. I had attended the competition several times previously to the gym every day for at least an hour and a half. I created a vision board at home and cut out the Miss Russian San Francisco crown. Every day, I would look at my vision board and imagine myself winning the competition and wearing the glamorous trophy. I worked a lot on cultivating self-confidence. The goal of winning the competition was my greatest motivation.

How would you describe your style?

When I dress, I want to stand out, so I would describe my style as classy with a twist.

What is the most difficult thing you have done in your life? Do you have any regrets?

No, I definitely do not have any regrets. I cannot think of anything especially difficult I have had to live life. Life is a very beautiful thing; it is a wonderful journey and its beauty is in diversity. Perhaps, I would describe my experiences in life as different but not difficult.

Q&A

What beauty tips do you swear by? ➧ Get as much exercise as possible and eat healthily.

What piece of advice would you give to live and it is precious.

Is the glass half empty or half full? ➧ Half full. Half empty if it’s about wine.

If you inherited $100,000, how would you spend it? ➧ I would invest in sto earn my first million dollars.

What is your favorite music genre? ➧ Deep House, but I enjoy listening to many different music genres as well.

What are the top three qualities that you value the most in other people? ➧ Focus, ambition and kindness

In your opinion, what is your best physical feature and personality trait? ➧ I like being tall and slim. I believe the best characteristic of my personality is the joy I have for life.

On a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the highest, rate your fashion sense. ➧ 10. I believe being fashionable doesn’t just mean wearing trendy clothing, but it’s more about wearing clothing tastefully.

What has been the hardest thing for you to speak in front of large crowds.

Do you have a catchphrase? ➧ Live your life as though everything is a miracle.
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