The Apprentice 2025 is set to return with its most competitive lineup yet, featuring 18 dynamic candidates vying for Lord Alan Sugar's coveted £250,000 investment and mentorship. This year marks the 19th season of the long-standing BBC series, which promises intriguing challenges and the potential for groundbreaking business ideas from its contenders.
Hosted by business mogul Lord Sugar and his trusted advisors, Baroness Karren Brady and Tim Campbell MBE, the show kicks off on Thursday, January 30, 2025, at 9 PM on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. This series moves away from the traditional male-female team division, emphasizing collaboration among candidates from the outset, as eluded to by Lord Sugar himself: "I think it's quite refreshing. It's interesting to see how they handle being mixed teams because it's not what they necessarily expected from the start."
The candidates come from varied professions and backgrounds, showcasing their personalities and ambitions as they attempt to impress Lord Sugar. Among them is Amber-Rose Badrudin, the owner of Oree Mart, who has rocketed to fame with over 1 million followers on social media. She aims to offer Taiwanese bubble tea through her new venture, Oree Tea. Badrudin remarks, "If Lord Sugar doesn’t invest in me, he would quite literally be leaving money on the table!"
Anisa Khan, another standout candidate, takes pride as the owner of a pizza company specializing in Indian-Italian fusion flavors. She describes her mission to expand by setting up dark kitchens and envisions transforming her business model. "I'm driven, ambitious, and determined to carve my own path," Khan states, indicating her feisty approach to the competition.
Aoibheann Walsh, from County Donegal, brings her experience as the owner of a beauty salon. At just 24 years old, she launched her business and aims to revolutionize the beauty industry with her patented utility belt, stating, "I believe I deserve Lord Sugar’s investment as like him, I have achieved my success through hard work and perseverance."
Carlo Brancati, hailing from Middlesbrough, aims to pull back the veil on the hair transplant industry. After experiencing the process himself, Brancati has developed plans for creating an online platform to assist patients in finding reputable clinics. "No one works harder than me!" he proudly claims, underlining his self-taught dedication to success.
Chisola Chitambala, previously working in healthcare, has transitioned to entrepreneurship with her virtual assistant company. Her innovative concept aims to reshape the investment-seeking process for new entrepreneurs, emphasizing the ease of connecting with vetted investors. "I am committed to excellence and overcoming challenges," she points out.
Dean Franklin is recognized for setting up his air conditioning business during the pandemic, which recently won the Best Tradesperson of the Year award. Reflecting his determination, Franklin states, "I can relate to many things Lord Sugar has said and done, and I’m hoping he can show me the ropes. Together we can get to the next level."
Emma Rothwell recounts her inspiring entrepreneurial path from selling gifts out of her boyfriend’s garage to operating her successful online store. "To evolve my business to the next level, I want to create a community where creators can upload their designs onto gifts," Rothwell shares with conviction.
Emma Street, aiming to revolutionize the coffee market, draws on her gym knowledge to create healthy takeaway coffee options. "I’m targeting a true gap in the market with my business plan," she asserts, emphasizing her innovative approach.
Former athlete Frederick Afrifa now motivates others as a public-speaking coach. He sees his experience as foundational for his communication skills company. "I want to help professionals gain confidence when speaking," he adds, hinting at his dynamic potential.
Dr. Jana Denzel operates a leading cosmetic dental practice on Harley Street, aiming to establish his firm as the premier dental provider across the UK. With ambitions to launch his own oral health product line, he expresses his enthusiasm: "My business has the potential to disrupt and transform the UK dental industry."
Jonny Heaver hopes to take his tutoring business nationwide, focusing on emotional intelligence and compassion as pivotal aspects of success. "It’s my goal to bring heart back to business," Heaver states, conveying his philosophy.
Jordan Dargan, the youngest contestant at 22 years old, aspires to expand his animation studio through collaboration. "I want to show the youth out there the creative power at their fingertips," he emphasizes, displaying ambition beyond his years.
Keir Shave, who set up his telemarketing company quickly after his previous employer went under, aims to introduce innovative sales solutions. "My business plan leverages technology to support sales staff effectively," he explains, addressing potential competition.
Liam Snellin uses his experience as an electrician to provide fashionable workwear, capitalizing on the growing demand within the trades. "I have nothing to prove; I know what I am capable of and the tools I bring to this competition," Snellin asserts.
Max England, once a professional tennis player, is now aiming to tap the burgeoning padel market with his vision for premium indoor facilities. He relates his sports background to business: "My ambition is to open series of padel centres providing high-quality coaching and facilities."
Melica Moshiri, operating her own AI tech recruitment firm, is ready to connect her passions for technology and travel, aiming for global reach. "With Lord Sugar’s mentorship, we can only go up and multiply the investment," she concludes, highlighting her confidence.
Mia Collins, who channels her competitive spirit from bodybuilding to meal prep services, narrates her passion for helping others achieve their nutrition goals. "It’s more than meal prep; it's about creating a healthier community," she says, encapsulating her ambitious vision for the future.
Nadia Suliaman showcases her celebrity regulars at her premium salon chain. Despite challenges posed by the pandemic, she has expanded her business significantly. "If I had listened to the world, I wouldn’t have started my business; Lord Sugar should invest because I turn dreams to reality," she stresses, expressing her tenacity.
With their diverse backgrounds, innovative plans, and readiness to tackle fierce competition, the candidates of The Apprentice 2025 promise to deliver entertainment and inspiration as they strive for entrepreneurial success. This season's mix of ambition and adversity is set to captivate audiences as they witness the rise of the next generation of business innovators.