Trishna Thakrar talks Business and The Apprentice

Trishna Thakrar  is one of the entrepreneurs on The Apprentice 2016 hoping to win Lord Sugar’s £250,000 investment.

The 28-year-old is a recruitment agent from London with a love for football. Trishna admits that the business world became an interest that she developed after university, and is now successfully working in recruitment.

In a special interview with DESIblitz, Trishna Thakrar talks about her time on The Apprentice. 

And whether she has faced any challenges in the business world as a British Asian woman.

How did you get into business?

I left university with a Journalism degree but quickly decided I wanted to be in charge of my own earnings.

I researched the recruitment industry and liked the sound of it and therefore applied for various positions.

After my first role, I went from strength to strength which has enabled me to get to where I am today.

Why did you decide to apply for The Apprentice?

I’ve always been a fan of the show and have seen the success of the businesses that Lord Sugar has invested in.

I like to take risks, push myself and experience things outside of my comfort zone and I also felt at a stage where I was at my prime, so I decided to give it a go and apply.

Was it hard working with such big characters?

I’m used to working with people from different backgrounds and skills although it definitely took some getting used to.

We were all after the same goal so it was, of course, a very competitive environment. We all got on really well which made it much easier.

What was the best thing about being part of The Apprentice? 

The experience as a whole is genuinely life changing. It really is high pressure and intense throughout but it gives you

the opportunity to do things you would otherwise never have a chance to do.

You learn so much from it and get to meet some amazing people along the way!

What makes you stand out as an entrepreneur?

I’m really passionate about what I do and I know that I have the ability to create a very successful business.

My experiences to date and the skills I’ve learnt throughout my career have given me the confidence to take risks and not to be afraid of change.

I like to stand out from the crowd and express my opinions, especially when it’s something I’m passionate and knowledgeable about!

Do you think we need more British Asians or more diversity in general on television?

I think in recent times we have seen much more diversity across television, especially with British Asians, which is very refreshing.

Hopefully, this continues and more British Asians put themselves in the public eye and showcase their talents.

Have you faced any difficulties in business because of your background or ethnicity?

Never. Fortunately, the industry I work in is very diverse and I’ve never faced any kind of difficulty in moving my career forwards because of my background.

Admittedly I do use it to my advantage when appropriate to built rapport or trust.

Were there any challenges, a backlash from the community or your own family? 

My family are extremely open minded, and couldn’t be more supportive of the decisions I’ve made.

“Culturally my father is a very proud man and couldn’t be prouder of my appearance on The Apprentice! It also feels good to represent the Asian community on such a reputable and well regarded show.”

Is it harder to be a successful businesswoman than a businessman? 

In my opinion, no. From my experience, skills have always been prioritised over sexuality or race.

What is your favourite Desi food?

Mutter Paneer is probably my favourite closely followed by a good Tarka Dhal!

I’m definitely a rice person over naan or chapati too!

What is your dream job?

When I was younger it was definitely to be sports presenter or reporter but based on the stage I’m at now in my career, my goal is to run my own IT recruitment business.

What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs?

Take risks and don’t let anything hold you back. Recognise your skills and talents and channel those in the right direction.

Don’t be afraid of failure and keep pushing yourself to be better!

DESIblitz wishes Trishna Thakrar the best of luck on her The Apprentice journey.

Watch The Apprentice on Thursdays at 9pm on BBC One.