Mia Collins candidate on BBC’s The Apprentice 2025
BBC The Apprentice candidate Mia Collins thrives on a challenge. Discipline and structure are core to her mindset. Constantly looking to develop herself, she uses feedback as a springboard to learn and bounce back.
Soon after completing her Business Management degree at UWE Bristol, she launched a meal preparation company (making up to 700 meals every Sunday) whilst also working in Cyber Security.
But that wasn’t enough for Mia, who now competes in amateur bodybuilding having taken gold in her first show of the season. Her focus and drive has seen her realise many ambitions.
“What keeps me going? The constant challenge to be better than yesterday” says Mia.
Despite not getting to the final in the series, Mia says she feels like she’s won because she’s learnt so much. We spoke to her about her background, her Grandma, and saying yes.
With your bodybuilding background and entrepreneurial flair, you must be very driven. What gives you that push to work hard and succeed?
For me, it comes down to self-discipline and proving to myself what I’m capable of. Bodybuilding and business both require consistency – there’s no instant gratification, but you see results when you put the work in every single day.
“I know that the more effort I put in, the bigger the outcome.”
How has your background influenced you?
I spent a huge part of my life growing up with my Grandma. She was a real powerhouse and had a big influence on me. Losing her felt like losing my right arm; she was everything to me. I use her loss to propel myself forward.
“If I continue to work hard and keep pushing, it helps me to manage my grief as I know I am making her proud.”
My family are in the construction industry, my grandma and grandad set up our family business which my Dad now runs, they are entrepreneurs. They taught me that taking risks can pay off and hard work is always worth it.
You recently returned to UWE Bristol to work with students. Why?
Because I know what it’s like to be a student who’s ambitious but unsure of their next move. When I was a student, I had big ideas but didn’t always know the best way to execute them.
“I want to help students bridge the gap between education and real-world experience – whether that’s through career advice, starting a side hustle, or building confidence in their own abilities.”
“Sometimes, you just need to hear from someone who’s been in your shoes and taken the leap.”
Finally, from your experience on The Apprentice, what one piece of advice would you give to someone wanting to progress?
“Put yourself in uncomfortable situations. Growth never happens when you play it safe.”
On The Apprentice, you’re constantly thrown into tasks that you’ve never done before, under extreme pressure. It forces you to think fast, adapt, and back yourself. And that’s exactly what entrepreneurship is like.
“Say yes to things before you feel ready.”
Whether it’s applying for a job you think is out of reach, starting a business, or putting yourself forward in a room full of people – just go for it. You’ll figure it out as you go.
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