On success and failure: Celina Le Neindre, season 1 candidate, 'Apprentice Asia'
I catch up with the other Pinoy in 'The Apprentice Asia' who became my very good friend.
Celina Le Neindre was one of the candidates in the "The Apprentice Asia" season 1 that I formed a good friendship with. She was also very instrumental to my win as I tapped her hospitality skills that strategically matched the charity auction challenge in the final episode.
I caught up with Celina to find out how her life is a year after the show ended. In this exclusive Q&A, she shares some never-before-spilled secrets about the show, and her philosophy on how to become successful in life.
"The Apprentice Asia" took place almost a year ago. How have you been?
It was an experience that opened so many doors that it’s difficult for me to decide what to do next. I’m still in love with the hospitality industry and will continue to serve it but I’m open to new opportunities. I’m happy, and don’t have any complaints about my personal life.
Speaking of career, tell us about your new projects these days.
I’m now the brand ambassador of proudly Filipino-made rum, Don Papa. I jumped at this opportunity to work with a brand that I admire, and represent a product I believe in.
I also intend to develop a new menu for my father's restaurant Claude's Cafe in Davao City, Philippines. It just turned 18 years last May 1. I plan to create a "farm-to-table” cooperative system which allows farmers to sell organic produce to the closest local market.
Give us one memory from "The Apprentice Asia" you will never forget.
I guess I felt slightly betrayed by my teammates when I got fired in Episode 7, but I understand that they did it to survive the boardroom. Business is business, it's nothing personal. That's why the corporate world is not for everybody.
Everyone is curious! Did any romance blossom between you and another contestant? Spill the beans, please. Because I'm the one interviewing you, you cannot include me in this answer (hahaha).
Haha! I do have to say one thing (smiles): it's easy to get attracted to the boys in the show when you are surrounded by their wit, talent and charisma.
Oh, come on, you’re not answering my question!
Okay, fine! Yes, I did develop some infatuation for someone but it was long after the show aired when all 12 candidates became close friends. We are all still good friends today.
Give us the 3 toughest competitors you had in "The Apprentice Asia." What traits do you admire about them?
Andrea Loh: Drive
Alexis Bauduin: Determination
Jonathan: Balanced passion
Many guys are asking: what do you think defines an attractive, sexy guy? And if someone would like to take you out on a date, how should the guy impress you?
I do like a "renaissance" kind of man. He must have several interests in life, like history and arts, culture, sports, business, etc. To impress me, a man must be attentive to details, and remembers little things I say, or do. He must be genuine and he must know when to be serious and when to have fun.
We know you cook well. If there was going be a Master Chef Asia, would you join? If there's going to be another season of Amazing Race Asia, would you mind joining me as my partner and win it? I really think we can win it, yeah!
Hahaha! "Amazing Race" definitely yes, let's do it! As for "Master Chef," I don't think I’ll enjoy competing in the cuisine. I'm quite basic and classic, and I like to stick to tradition as opposed to innovation in the kitchen.
You scrubbed toilets in Europe before you became a hotel executive. How did that experience help you?
It humbled me a lot. You can never appreciate where you are now until you’ve experienced how it is to be in the dump. When I manage a restaurant, I sympathize with the waiters, dishwashers, chefs and everyone, because I have been through what they are going through now. In return, I earn their respect and influence them more effectively.
It’s now becoming a more competitive world out there. What tip can you give to anyone searching for success in life?
We all have many talents and blessings — the key is to find them and be deliberate and strategic when you should use them. Discover where your passion will take you: read, travel, eat, make friends, talk! Do what you love so that it doesn't it feel like is a job — and you will surely succeed.
How about failure? How do you get up whenever you fall?
Failures teach you what went wrong so you can avoid doing them again. If you reach success without failure, I call that luck. I channel my anger and disappointment from failure to do become better. I see it as graceful vengeance. As they say, what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.
Season 2 of "The Apprentice Asia" may be coming up soon. Can you share with our readers 3 tips on how to make it to the Final 12?
Just be yourself. Don’t be conscious of what people will think about you because that will make you feel awkward, less confident and nervous when you speak. People will notice it. If it's meant to be, the spot will be yours!
Need motivation at work? Read more insights from Jonathan:
Jonathan Yabut is the season one winner of the hit business reality TV show, "The Apprentice Asia." He currently serves as the Chief of Staff reporting directly to Malaysian business mogul and Group CEO of AirAsia, Tony Fernandes. Jonathan actively engages in motivational and leadership talks within Southeast Asia and is soon to launch a book about leadership and “making it big.” Visit Jonathan’s website, www.JonathanYabut.com for more updates or follow him via AAJonathanYabut (Facebook) and @jonathanyabut (Twitter).
