Cover Story
Interview with Didi Olomide
As she settled herself among the hottest personalities out there, Didi Olomide gets candid with us concerning her role as a black social media influencer and her position in the industry. Here is an insight from one of this year’s biggest influencer.
Interview : Kelly Lauriente
KL: The lesson that 2020 taught you ?
Didi: That nothing is worth the love of our loved ones. Too much time has been spent on trivial matters. Once you're quarantined at home, sometimes alone, it's the connection with your family and friends that keeps you afloat.
KL: Tell us a vivid memory of yours. That of the event that made today's Didi.
Didi: The first time a model scout spotted me on the street. I remember that I instantly gained confidence then. I was a girl who didn't like herself. Understanding that my appearance could take me far and open some doors changed something within me. I’ve never seen myself the same way since that day, in 2015.
KL: This year was a return to simplicity for many of us, how do you think the profession of influencer tends to evolve ?
Didi: I think that influencers will become bigger than ever before. We realized that digital was the way, especially this year (laughs). Now everything has to be doable online, from the runway to your closet.
KL: Tell us about the most memorable partnership you’ve done.
Didi:Fenty Beauty. Because I was able to meet Rihanna. Not once, but twice. Once during the launch in Paris, then during my trip to Seoul. Not only did I participate in a campaign for a brand that inspires me, but I mean, I literally met Rihanna !
KL: Influence is a fairly competitive environment. How to make the difference ?
Didi:As soon as you’re your most authentic self, there’s no such thing as competition. If people are interested in you, it’s because of your uniqueness. Going against it is the best way to be boring. Go ahead and fake it, but it doesn't work honey !
KL: Tell us about the most memorable partnership you’ve done.
Didi:Fenty Beauty. Because I was able to meet Rihanna. Not once, but twice. Once during the launch in Paris, then during my trip to Seoul. Not only did I participate in a campaign for a brand that inspires me, but I mean, I literally met Rihanna !
KL: What are your inspirations ?
Didi:I’m African. I’m Congolese (laughs). Do I have to say more ? Fashion is highly prominent in Congolese culture. I mean, we are even talking about sapology -“sappe” is a derivative for clothes in French -. Of course, I am also always on the lookout for the latest runway and Rihanna, Victoria Beckham or Céline Dion are definitely inspirations for me.
KL: Some designers to share with us ?
Didi:I love HANIFA, which is trending a lot these days. I have worn it several times this summer. As a Congolese, I’m always proud to wear it. I’m also a big fan of TONGORO, by Sarah Diouf who’s a Senegalese. I absolutely recommend these.
KL: What is the next step for you ?
Didi:I would like to work on my own project... But I’ve already said too much !
Brand：Jean Paul Gaultier
Photographer：@Axlejozeph
MUA:@richiemakeup
Hair: @lilvanillacoiffure
PH assistant: @jiescleodore @pancaldianja