An ex-Apprentice contestant from Bolton has lifted the lid on her experiences after being watched by “millions, week in, week out” on the hit series.

Heaton-based Michaela Wain appeared on season 13 of the BBC series only to be eventually fired by Lord Sugar for having “too many companies".

But since her 2017 Apprentice appearance she secured investment for her plans from elsewhere and has helped launch the industry first Women in Construction Awards.

Ms Wain said: “I felt really overwhelmed with the positive response from the public.

"In addition, I had several investors wanting to launch my business plan from the show.

The Bolton News: Michaela Wain was a contestant on The Apprentice in 2017Michaela Wain was a contestant on The Apprentice in 2017 (Image: Framework Marketing)

“I did my due diligence and picked the best fit for me and the vision for the business.”

After hearing from other women reaching out, often with stories about the discrimination they had faced in the construction industry, Ms Wain launched the Women in Construction Awards.

The scheme has been supported by Lord Sugar, who gave a video address to guests at the 2023 awards event.

Ms Wain has also now launched another first of its kind training court for women who want to become leaders in the construction industry.

She says that the goal is to help retain the women climb up the ladder and help to inspire other young women coming through.

Ms Wain said: “It is important to remember when you have been given a platform and you see an opportunity to help people like you, that you take the time and resources which you have and help as many people as possible.

“Not many people get the opportunity to be seen by millions of people week in, week out.

“We can either use this for personal gain or try to make some positive changes in society, I opted for the latter.

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“I couldn’t be prouder of what I have achieved pre and post The Apprentice.

“None of the work I am doing to help women in construction would have been possible without such a huge platform and I am forever grateful.

“I would encourage anyone who is thinking about it to apply to The Apprentice.

“Otherwise, apply for a job in construction as it’s the best industry on the planet and needs talented, experienced individuals as well as new, rising stars.”