Two Swiss graduates ready to surpass themselves in Koh-Lanta

It’s a brand new season that awaits TF1 viewers. From 20 August 2024, they will be able to follow the first episode of “Koh-Lanta, The Cursed Tribe”, where 22 new castaways who have left their everyday lives must live the great adventure for 40 days on an island in the Philippines. Among them two Vaudois: Gustin, 26 years old, swimming instructor in Yverdon-les-Bains, who loves to spend his days in nature, as comfortable on land as in water. And Michel, 36, human resources manager in Lausanne, who has developed a competitive mentality and must always push his limits.

What made you join “Koh-Lanta”?

Gustin: Since I was very young, I have watched “Koh-Lanta”. Last year I started making forest survival videos, which did well on Instagram, under the name swisswildness. At the same time, I saw that we could sign up for the casting of the next season of this show. Being well prepared mentally and physically, I felt ready to submit my application and I was accepted.

Michel: Actually, it was because of two friends who kept encouraging me to participate. So one day I asked myself the question and decided to take the plunge. And so I sent my application.

Before you left, did you prepare in a certain way?

Gustin: I worked out a lot by weight training and swimming. I learned about the basics of survival. I also did archery for the famous event.

Michel: As we know, if we are in the show shortly before the shooting, it is difficult to prepare. Also, I’m a city dweller who works in an office, and I don’t have a following that would motivate me to exercise physically. I just read a survival book. So I tried to prepare theoretically (laughs).

What is your strong point in this adventure?

Gustin: I am a very good swimmer because I have been swimming since I was a child. I am also physically strong, I do a lot of sports. And since I was little, I have spent my time in nature.

Michel: I think I am a balanced person. I maintain my physical condition by working out three times a week in the gym. I also have a good analytical mind, a good ability to quickly understand people. This is a good skill in this adventure, which is primarily a social adventure.

Gustin: I’m a very lonely person. I often spend my time alone in nature. So I was afraid of finding myself stranded on an island with candidates I didn’t know. I have a strong character and my relationships with strangers are not always easy.

Michel: I learned to swim a year before participating in “Koh-Lanta”. So I’m really not a good swimmer. Socially, I have a hard time smoothing corners or being diplomatic with people. So this can be a big obstacle.

How did those around you react when your participation was revealed?

Gustin: Everyone was very happy for me. My loved ones are even more excited than I am. They know that I am a great sportsman and that I do many things in nature.

Michel: I think my parents don’t really understand the scale of the matter (laughs). They will find out when the episodes air. On the other hand, my sister is even more proud than me! She repeats it to everyone. My friends are all a little crazy too since they found out I’m participating. There is a very positive enthusiasm.

What will you do with the 100,000 euros if you win?

Gustin: I want to continue to grow my business around my videos and my audience, and also grow my brand of outdoor gear.

Michel: I’m not doing this adventure for the money. But if I win, I’ll buy an apartment in Asia. When I participate in a game, of course I want to win, but participating in “Koh-Lanta” is already a victory.

Want to join other reality TV shows?

Gustin: No, I don’t think so. I really told myself that “Koh-Lanta” was the only show I could do because it touches my field, survival, nature. The rest doesn’t really interest me.

Michael: I don’t know. Sometimes I say yes because it might make me discover things. And other times I say no to myself because I don’t know what the consequences might be. The fact that I’m famous wouldn’t scare me, but I didn’t want any repercussions for my parents. I didn’t want anyone bothering them on the street.