‘So You Wanna Get Married’ is very real, there is no holding back – Sijuade

Dolapo Sijuade is not new to the entertainment industry; in line with broadening her horizons, she recently launched a talk show on Youtube. She tells TOBI AWODIPE what the show is about and how she came about the idea as well as future plans.

So you wanna get married’, what is it really about?
So You Wanna Get Married is a discussion and interactive show with a revolving panel of guests where we talk about topics centered on relationships, sex and marriage. The show’s guests comprise of Africans from all walks of life and we get their take on certain relationship topics.

What was the inspiration behind starting the project?
When I was getting married, I noticed the interest people had was not only in the wedding but also in relationships in general. So I thought to create a show that focus solely on relationships and see how the environment around us plays an important role in our attitudes to relationships and sex.

From 53Extra to Moments with Mo, why did you decide to start producing your own talk show?
That has always been one of my goals. 53Extra was my foundation. That was my first ever-presenting job. I learnt so much on both shows and it was only natural for me to take the next step, which was to work on my own show, take up a new challenge and build my brand.

What challenges do you face as a producer, scriptwriter and presenter?
Honestly, it has been a very challenging but interesting journey so far. As the Executive Producer and Presenter for my show, I have had to wear many hats.

I make sure that whatever I am doing, I am doing with the best of my ability. Fortunately, I have been presenting for years, so I can focus a lot of my attention on the logistics with crew and the likes. It is quite tasking but it has helped me to be more organised and helped me to manage my time wisely.
There are so many talk shows about marriage, love and sex, what makes

‘So you wanna get married’ different?
My show is currently on Youtube and is very accessible; it can be watched wherever and whenever. Our conversations are very real and we do not hold back, we let it all out. Also, each episode is 15 minutes long, just enough time to hold ones attention.

Any future plans for broadcast expansion?
Yes I do, before the end of the year. I want as many people as possible to watch and appreciate the show.

Are there other projects that you are currently working on?
I will be starring in Wakaa The Musical during Easter at the new Theatre at Terra Culture, which I am very excited about. I have just wrapped up a new television series and I am shooting a movie next month. I also launched my foundation ‘The Dolapo Sijuwade Foundation’ last year, which focuses on youth development, using mentorship programmes and motivational seminars and workshops to empower the youth. The foundation is holding three workshops this year and the first workshop will hold in mid-April. So yes, I do have a lot of exciting projects coming up.

What are some of the personal values you live by?
For me, respect is very important. I cannot over emphasize respect for others as well as for myself. Secondly, gratitude; I am always grateful to God everyday that I wake up happy, healthy and able to pursue my passion.