16-year-old Gbemi Okunlola became the latest candidate to be fired from the Young Apprentice 2011 last night, and here the teenager chats about her time on the show. Just where did it all go wrong for the fashion student and who does she think will walk away as Lord Sugar’s Young Apprentice?
How did you find your time on the show?
While on the show I thought it was an absolutely amazing experience which many people do not get the chance to have. I feel it was beyond a privilege to have taken part in this year’s Young Apprentice and I enjoyed every minute of it. Up until I got fired of course.
Who do you think is the strongest candidate?
I do feel that everyone who participated in the show had strengths in many different areas and also weaknesses. However I think that James is one of the strongest candidates.
Tell us what happened in the task you were fired on…
In the task that I was fired on, I think that the main reason for me failing was because of the appearance of the deodorant bottle. In addition to this I may have come across uncooperative for a number of unnecessary reasons. However I have learnt an unbelievable amount from the process all of which I feel has strengthened me in many different ways and will definitely contribute to my success in the near future.
What were your highlights of the experience?
My main highlight throughout the show was working amongst the other candidates and understanding how different personalities affect or complement each other when merged. Also meeting Lord Sugar, Karren and Nick obviously was an amazing opportunity.
How do you think this experience will help you in the future?
I feel that from the experience I have already learnt so much about myself which I think is my biggest gain in all. Having the Young Apprentice on my CV will definitely be a bonus.
What are your hopes for your future career?
My hopes for my future career are exactly the same as they were before I entered the Young Apprentice. Which is to be known as the youngest world renowned fashion designer. However I am 1000x more motivated than I was before.
What would you to say to any fellow young aspiring business people? Any advice?
I would firstly say, always be yourself no matter what the situation, and in whatever you do in life make sure at the forefront of your brain you are aiming to satisfy yourself. It is very good to be strong minded, but at the same time you need ensure that you are not narrow minded. As sometimes you may be standing a bit too close to the mirror to notice what other people see.
What have you learnt about business from your experience on the Young Apprentice?
I have learnt so much about business from this experience. If I was to say it all I would be here forever. The biggest thing that I have learnt is that you should always put in your 200% no matter what the situation as you never know when your actions will have an effective toll on you.
Young Apprentice airs on Mondays at 9pm on BBC1
