Mide Oni, a rising star in the UK entertainment scene, has quickly become the go-to presenter and host for engaging interviews and vibrant content. With her fearless statements, eccentric personality, and years of experience in social media management, Mide has captivated audiences with her unique style. From her popular show The MideShowoffical to her role as the main host on Trendcntrl’s Off the Record, she continues to make her mark on the entertainment industry.
In this exclusive interview for Inside Success, I had the opportunity to delve into Mide’s journey and discover her invaluable advice for aspiring presenters looking to make a splash in the UK.
What is your background?
- In terms of my background, I have Nigerian heritage from both parents but I am British and I was raised in south London specifically Peckham growing up. I hated saying I’m from Peckham so I would say I’m from Old Kent Road.
Did you go down the educational route or not?
- I went through the whole educational route. I went to Brunel University for 4 years and studied history and politics. I ended up getting kicked out in my 4th year 3 months away from graduation and I was on my way to receiving a 1st.
What made you choose the educational route?
- Being from a Nigerian background it was a straight educational route and I was a straight-A student in history so I just chose that as the route because I knew I would pass. I didn’t fully know what I wanted to be but I did have the thought of being a singer. I used to be in my church choir and lead praise and worship but now I just sing in my shower.
How did you develop the confidence that you have?
- My mum is the most confident woman I have ever met in my life. She always told me to walk with my head held high. She always uplifted me and pushed me to do whatever I wanted to do of course in a very Nigerian way. She pushed me to work hard till I am the best.
What led you down the career path of a host and presenter?
- I wanted to become a talk show host 10 years ago. I loved watching Wendy Williams so that helped with inspiration. I would describe myself as funny and charismatic. I love talking and a lot of people I met endorsed me putting myself out there to get my show.
Do you feel like your upbringing had a part to play in your chosen career path?
- I think my upbringing has allowed me to believe that I am destined for greatness and that I can conquer anything with the values instilled in me. So yes it played a huge part.
How do you deal with criticism from the public telling you how to run your platform?
- There are a lot of haters, that’s just society in general. If many people say the same thing ask those closest to you people who know you and won’t lie to you because they have your best interest at heart take advice from people who tell you the truth in love and more accordingly and strive to be better “if you ain’t got haters you ain’tpopping”
How do you deal with negative energy from the person you’re interviewing?
- Shockingly, you can be taken back from the situation. I would say assess where you are and why you’re here and hold things together because you need to strive for better. Always think ahead before you act, and move in a way that is best for the best outcome.
What are some tips on how you maintain grace and professionalism during your interviews?
- I advise that you always have to remember what you put out online is permanent, and be mindful of how you want to be portrayed. You have to hold yourself to a standard that you want others to look up to so again always think of how you want to be perceived.
A Lot of the stories you have heard as an interviewer can be impactful. How have you remained strong whilst hearing them?
- It takes a lot not to cry at some of the stories you help others unravel. For me, I just remember it’s not about my emotions, it’s about the interviewee telling their story. You have to embody being the narrator to make others comfortable and take things very seriously because we need to meet the objective. Certain stories you would never hear until you interview them but it’s your role to help them tell their story.
What is some advice to young people that you would give them aspiring to go down the same career path as you?
“ Just do it, baby!” Once you have the vision it only manifests later, give it a try and see what happens you won’t know till you step into it. Always read books about connecting with people perfecting listening skills and try using your friends to practice. It’s important to be well articulated so work on improving your vocab and be prideful in how you speak. Lastly, always entertain and enjoy thought-provoking questions.
How did you get onto the platform you have now?
- I started my show last year by consistently posting weekly, it’s important to always promote yourself. You have to be confident in your craft because having self-belief and being audacious is how you get there. You can always put yourself out there as long as you have a support system. I was rock bottom and saved up. Advice especially for parents: save up and create a plan having kids doesn’t stop you. It might slow you down but it is not a hindrance, create a network of people that are helpful and make it work.
How did you fund your show?
- Start with what you have. When I was doing my show I did it at an affordable rate. If it’s just using your phone, start. I was working in a mental health hospital and I started my own business which was a social media agency.Through that, I started managing clients’ social media platforms. It’s key to work within your means then in due time things can change.
What are things that people don’t tell you about having your show?
- Mentally prepare yourself especially for black women to capitalize off it. If you hate your doing something rightuse it as fuel for you to do more and be better. It’s necessary to study social media and post constantly. Through studying you will be able to find your niche and tailor your content to the audience. Then work on building a community. Make sure anything you put out is quality and be patient with the results.
How would you advise someone on sourcing interviews?
You have to be convincing when doing it. You have to articulate yourself in a way that you seem to be intelligent enough to conduct an interview especially when you’re young you want to be taken seriously. Be confident and stretch the conversation, try and to get more out of your interviewee. It’s important to dress well and have a clean aesthetic because when you look good, feel good, perform well. Always play to your strengths and find tools to make you work more efficiently.
Follow her socials here: https://www.instagram.com/mideoni_
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