Shai

Age: 33
From: London
Occupation: Finance Risk Manager

What made you want to be a contestant on Survivor?

Being a super fan! I remember watching the show as an 11 year old in Sri Lanka where I grew up till the age of 17 and have watched most previous seasons across the 23 year period. When the opportunity arose, I jumped at it! Who wouldn’t want to be stranded on a random island with nothing but basic rations against a bunch of random strangers, competing in the best game ever!

What qualities did you think you’d bring to the game?

Given my knowledge of the game, I believe I can help my tribe thrive in challenges physically and strategically.

How did you prepare yourself mentally and physically for taking part?

Mentally I made sure to sharpen my mind with puzzle books to help with any challenges on the island. While physically I did put on some weight heading into the game to have some energy reserves due to the lack of food on the island.

Did you have a strategy of how you were going to play the game?

My strategy before going into the game was to lay low at the beginning, not drawing any attention to myself and then try and seize control in the mid game. Which it turns out is much easier said than done!

How competitive are you?

I am a very competitive individual and always want to win within the rules of the game, although being very competitive can have its downside as it puts a target on yourself!

What kind of challenges were you most looking forward to?

I was most looking forward to the reward and immunity challenges and testing myself physically and mentally with the challenge of living on a remote beach.

How did you cope with living on a beach with no home comforts?

It was tough but I felt like I became accustomed to it and enjoyed it thoroughly, although maintaining my hair in the process wasn’t ideal!

How did you cope with the hunger?

The first few days were tough but I managed to get through it with the whole excitement of being on a remote island with random strangers. Eventually, my body got used to my new reality of living on the island. Post the island experience I will never take food for granted!

What did you learn from being on the show?

I have always thought I am a risk averse person, but I have realised that am open to taking a lot more risks! Go BIG or go home was my philosophy! You only get one shot at playing the greatest game in the world.