Ivan Yeo

Ivan Yeo is a prominent figure in the esports industry, best known as the co-founder and former CEO of EVOS Esports, which he established in 2016. Under his leadership, EVOS grew from a startup that made only US$10,000 in its first year to one of Southeast Asia's leading esports organizations, securing significant funding and achieving notable success in various tournaments.13

Background and Career

• Early Career: Before venturing into esports, Ivan began his professional journey in finance and fund management at a family office. He also briefly operated a restaurant business in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, in 2015.1
• Founding EVOS Esports: Ivan co-founded EVOS with two friends as a hobby, driven by his passion for gaming that began at age 12. The company quickly became recognized for its competitive teams and innovative approach to player management and community engagement.21
• Achievements: Under his guidance, EVOS Esports has won multiple championships and expanded its influence across Southeast Asia, managing over 300 players and influencers with a combined social media following exceeding 60 million.1 In 2020, he was named in the Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia list for his contributions to the industry.1

Recent Developments

In 2022, Ivan Yeo co-founded Avium, a media startup focused on esports, after stepping down from his role at EVOS. This new venture continues to impact the esports landscape by partnering with organizations like Geek Fam to enhance their competitive presence.3

Vision and Philosophy

Ivan views the esports industry as fragmented yet full of opportunities. He emphasizes the importance of catering to local needs while maintaining a focus on player well-being rather than just winning.2 His strategic approach likens to playing a game of weiqi (Go), where envisioning future scenarios is crucial for success.1

Overall, Ivan Yeo's journey reflects a blend of entrepreneurial spirit and a deep-rooted passion for gaming, making him a key player in shaping the future of esports in Southeast Asia.