Fired: week four
Age: 17
Education: advanced apprenticeship in IT services and development
Lives: Bedfordshire
Real Business (RB): Why did you apply for Junior Apprentice?
Hannah Cherry: I wanted to test myself in a competitive business environment that would be unique and challenging so I could improve my skills and learn. I wanted to grab a once in a lifetime opportunity and really push myself to see what I could achieve.
RB: So how did you find your time on the show?
Hannah Cherry: I loved every minute of my time on the show, it’s hard to put into words everything I went through, experienced and accomplished. Overall, I have no regrets.
RB: What did you think of Lord Sugar, Nick and Karren?
Hannah Cherry: It was such an amazing opportunity learning from an experienced and skilled business mentor like Lord Sugar.
I felt Lord Sugar’s decisions were firm but fair and he didn’t patronise us, but instead saw us as strong independent young people and this was reflected in the tasks we were given.
RB: Who do you think is the strongest candidate on the show?
Hannah Cherry: You should watch out for Tim and Kirsty as they are both very strong candidates with skills in a range of areas and have a good work ethic.
RB: Tell us what happened in the task you were fired on last week’s show.
Hannah Cherry: The task was all about the art world, selling a selection of paintings and photographs from two particular artists we chose.
I built profiles for each piece of art and relayed it to the team to build our knowledge when it came to selling. So sorry Tim [Tim Ankers, the task leader], but I’ve decided to be my own boss… you’ll have to find yourself another secretary!
I really stepped up my game when it came to setting up the Gallery and selling to the customers. Also, I set up and laid out the section of artwork where the majority of sales came from.
What were your highlights of the experience
My highlight of the series was the task when I won as Project Manager and we got over 3000 orders with a product and brand that I developed and designed.
RB: So how do you think this experience will help you in the future
Hannah Cherry: This experience will help me develop my confidence and practical skills so I can carry this forward into future business ventures. I believe this experience can open new doors and opportunities for me so I can really prove myself and make a difference as a successful business woman.
RB: What are you doing now, then?
Hannah Cherry: I’ve successfully completed my IT academy course and I am currently climbing the career ladder by working full time as an IT systems administrator. I feel being in a business environment and progressing in a practical way is the best way to learn and improve.
My invention is an ongoing project in the research and development stage with a prototype on the cards.
Also I am soon launching my first business, an online shop selling Vintage style home interior products and gifts.
RB: What are your hopes for your future career?
Hannah Cherry: I would like to gain experience in other areas of business, For example, aspects of design, marketing and product development. My biggest ambition is to have my own successful business in the future.
RB: What would you to say to any fellow young aspiring business people Any advice
Hannah Cherry: Hard work, initiative and shear determination can get you anywhere. So find something you’re passionate about, explore the possibilities and just go for it. Taking risks and utilising opportunities will differentiate you from others and add to learning experiences.
RB: What have you learnt about business from your experience on Junior Apprentice?
Hannah Cherry: The main thing I’ve learnt from the Junior Apprentice is to take more risks and be brave.
Since the experience I’ve done just that and I feel I’ve accomplished even more and now I’m starting up my own business.
Life’s too short, so find something you love and surround yourself with it and I’m fortunate enough to be able to do this now.
