Didi Edet started out designing outfits and running a fashion show. Today, she is a data analyst, debt recovery expert, author and relationship coach at Matchmakerdidi platform. Edet had her first degree in Economics from the prestigious Howard University in Washington DC in the United States and her Masters degree in International Strategy from University of St-Andrews, Scotland. In this interview, she speaks on her decision to go into matchmaking, her inspirations and challenges.

What really led to the change of name from Lagosmatchmaker to Matchmakerdidi?
WE changed the name from Lagosmatchmaker to Matchmakerdidi to demonstrate our inclusivity. Although we are currently based in Lagos, we have always served people from all states in Nigeria and also other countries such as the UK, the U.S., the UAE and others. But there was often a misunderstanding, which the previous name implied that we catered to only people residing in Lagos.

We wanted people to know that we are inclusive and we cater to all people regardless of location. Since our Principal/Head/Chief Matchmaker of the platform who is also the face of the platform is Didi who most clients are familiar with, we decided adding her name to the page was a good idea. That way, we maintain brand consistency despite the name change.

Are there changes expected to come with the new name?
We except to welcome a more diverse audience from various locations, as the new name will hopefully clear previous doubts and misunderstandings and bring to light goals of the platform.

What are the plans for new clients this year?
This year, we have simplified the process, which should translate to fast processing and shorter matching time, so members are guaranteed to get their matches much sooner than before

How would you rate last year in terms of successes achieved?
In terms of matching success that has resulted in dates, relationships or marriages, we have a 96 per cent rate at the moment and this is as a result of the fact that we are choosy about clients we take in. We take clients that are ready for a long-term relationship in order to ensure everyone on the platform is on the same page, thus save time on both sides

How many marriages have you recorded so far?
We have recorded a lot of marriages, but there are probably more we are unaware of. Due to our privacy policy, we can only post a few and have to cover up a lot of vital information before posting

Do you have special tips for clients on how to handle online dating?
Be honest, straightforward and clear in your communication to avoid misunderstandings
The fear of online dating these days is becoming alarming, what measures are you putting in place to ensure client’s security?

The fear is online and offline. As usual, we have the video verification process we do for our clients to avoid impersonation (that is, you are who you say you are) and we also encourage clients to follow the usual dating safety procedures such as meeting in a public places, informing a family member or friend of your location and watching your drink.

Have you ever attended the wedding of your clients, how did that make you feel?
Yes, I have attended just a few within my vicinity and it was overwhelming in a good way, to be able to witness that, knowing that you were an instrument used to bring them together.

What are those features that stand Matchmakerdidi out?
At Matchmakerdidi, we pride ourselves on how fast, precise, direct, and honest our teams of matchmakers are and also our high success rate.

What does true love mean to you?
True love can mean different things to different people. The meaning of love for me changes as I evolve and grow. As a teenager, my idea of love was totally different from what it is now and there is no telling what my idea of love could mean in another couple of years.

At this moment, love for me is being myself around the person, when I can truly show every aspect of my quirky, crazy, playful side without the fear of being judged, and when a person cares for me as much as I care for them or even more.

What are the signs when you find one?
I think your personal idea of true love will help guide you to recognise the signs when you find them.

Did you have mentors at the beginning of your career? What has been their impact?
Matchmaking is a new and growing industry in Nigeria, so there was no template or experienced professional to look up to. We had to create our own path, so I did not have a mentor in that aspect. But I did have a lot of support when it comes to entrepreneurship.

Over time, I tried out various businesses, like most people, and I’ve been lucky to always have support. Chief Edet Amana has been a huge support; from the very first thing I tried my hands into till today, he always tried to support in everyway.

My first memory of entrepreneurship was designing the outfits for the Cheerleading Squad in my secondary school, which also allowed me channel my interest in fashion and clothing and I eventually decided to do a fashion show in Calabar. Chief Edet Amana came all the way to my little show as a way to show his support. I didn’t know a lot about organising a show, so the turnout was low. Yet, I felt so supported by the sacrifice he made to be there. No matter how silly your idea is, he would never discourage you. I would say the impact I have received from his support is learning to try my hands in different things and not being afraid of failing.

Who or what do you consider as the greatest influence in your life?
My parents have been wonderful influences. My mother has always been the entrepreneur parent and my father has always been the educational parent. So, they have equally influenced me in giving me a great blend that I feel everyone needs. It’s not enough to be in love with being an entrepreneur; the quest for knowledge and wanting to constantly get better in what you do is very necessary too.

I think they both bring in the perfect blend. My father doesn’t shy away from challenges I would consider huge. So, that has also encouraged me, to be able to say ‘yes’ to things I typically feared and thought were beyond my reach. My mother believes in my abilities more than I believe in myself. My sister Edak and my mum are really similar in that way; they are optimistic about everything and it’s very refreshing.