Originally from the Philippines, Elen Gales lived in Sri Lanka, Indonesia and Nepal. Exposed to different languages and lifestyles, she immersed herself in various social norms and cultures. In 2001, her work with Young Asia Television in Colombo, Sri Lanka, gave her a new opportunity to approach this cultural immersion. She helped produce television documentaries for international NGOs on issues relating to human rights, sustainable development, environmental conservation as well as cultures and lifestyles in Asia.