HAVE THEY GOT WHAT IT TAKES?

Singapore attracts some very interesting expats, and we love hearing their stories. Here we chat to two such people, GONZALO GASTON SANCHEZ and MANUELA LOEBLEIN, who are contestants In The Apprentice: ONE Championship Edition. We cover what brought them here, what makes them tick, and their tips for achieving success.

- GEORGINA HOCKLEY

Competitor Profile

Name: Gonzalo Gaston Sanchez

Nationality: Spanish Years in Singapore: Six plus another two during high school

Where were you born and what do you love about your homeland?

I’m from Madrid, but I grew up in Jakarta and Singapore as a third culture kid. I miss Spain’s long summer nights where the sun is up till 11pm; and of course the food!

What was your journey to Singapore?

I used to work for Google as a head-hunter in Dublin, and they relocated me to Singapore. Such an amazing change in quality of life. I love it here! 

What do you do for work now?

My current job is as a head-hunter for a Chinese tech giant. I’m also a part-time luxury travel blogger (@gonzalogastons) and luxury hotel reviewer. 

Where is your home in Singapore and how long have you lived there?

I’m based in Robertson Quay. I used to live in Orchard, but the vibrant Riverside Walk really made me fall in love with the area – I wouldn’t live anywhere else. 

Have you faced any challenges in your life? From my teenage years all the way up to my early 20s I suffered bullying for being overweight. When I arrived in Singapore I decided to make a radical transformation and made fitness and nutrition a hobby and a daily habit. I managed to become part of the Spanish national team for dragon boating and even compete in Spartan races!