Raj Dhonota, 49, from Kent, appeared on the very first series of the BBC show. Read more:A former Apprentice star who appeared on the first series of the show has opened up about what it's like to be a contestant - and claims he 'didn't learn anything about business' from the experience.
'You are not allowed access to phones or the internet. We were allowed one call home in the time I was there and for later stage contestants, there was a planned event to meet a family member for two hours – all still filmed and audio recorded, so no privacy.' Raj said he didn't learn anything about business on the show and turned off watching the series he was in after just four episodes because he didn't think it portrayed reality.
Raj, studied law at university before going to work at HSBC, but soon realised it wasn't for him and set about launching his first company in his early-20s before later being picked to star on The Apprentice. Elsewhere he claimed Lord Sugar's aides, who were Nick Hewer and Karren Brady in 2005, weren't actually involved in the show much
'For two decades, I've ridden the rollercoaster of entrepreneurship, earning millions and losing millions,' admitted Dartford-born Raj. 'This venture will capture all of my attention for the foreseeable future - I'm dedicating the next five years to ensure its success. After that, I'll be stepping back and heading into retirement!'
Raj, studied law at university before going to work at HSBC , but soon realised it wasn't for him and set about launching his first company in his early-20s before later being picked to star on The Apprentice 'While there was no legal obligation to attempt a rescue, I felt a deep moral duty to do everything within my power to save the company and secure the livelihoods of our employees.'