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Meet Twix Da Jims, the Media Personality Redefining the Airwaves
Onimole Oluwasegunfunmi, popularly known as Twix Da Jims, is the charming media personality currently dominating the Lagos airwaves with his show “Lift Off” on City FM, now the Number 1 show in Lagos. As an OAP, rapper, hypeman, lifestyle connoisseur, and entrepreneur, Twix Da Jims has built a reputation for his unconventional approach and infectious energy. In this exclusive interview with MARY NNAH, he shares his inspiring journey, the secret to his show’s success, and his plans for the future
Can you tell us about your journey from gospel rapper to hypeman, OAP, and entrepreneur?
My journey has been quite an adventure, filled with unexpected turns and valuable lessons. I started as a gospel rapper, pouring my passion for music and faith into my lyrics. Over time, I realised my love for engaging with audiences went beyond just rapping. This led me to become a hypeman, where I could channel my energy into creating unforgettable experiences. I wanted more gigs and noticed that the hypeman before me had gigs on the radio, so I decided to explore that path as well. Transitioning to an On-Air Personality (OAP) felt natural, allowing me to connect with a broader audience. Finally, entrepreneurship came as I sought to bring my unique vision to life through ventures like Partitude, Shine Lagos, and Hustle Boy.
You’re known for your unconventional lifestyle and approach. What inspires this?
I draw inspiration from a variety of sources, but primarily from the desire to be authentic to myself. I believe in breaking norms and creating my path, which often means embracing unconventional methods. My lifestyle is a reflection of my belief that life should be lived boldly and without fear of judgment. Influences from diverse cultures, experiences, and the people I meet along the way continuously shape my approach.
Your show, LIFTOFF, has gained a massive following. What’s the secret to its success?
The secret to LIFTOFF’s success lies in its authenticity and engagement with the audience. I relate to Lagosians and entertain them to be happy despite what’s happening in the country. We party and I hype live on the radio, creating a lively and uplifting atmosphere. We strive to create content that resonates with our listeners, addressing real issues, sharing relatable stories, and bringing in guests who inspire and entertain. Consistency, quality, and a deep understanding of what our audience wants have been key. We also constantly innovate and evolve to keep the show fresh and exciting.
You’ve also made a mark in event hosting and management. What’s next for Partitude, Shine Lagos, and Hustle Boy?
The next step for Partitude, Shine Lagos, and Hustle Boy involves expanding our reach and impact. We plan to introduce new events and experiences that push the boundaries of entertainment and engagement. Additionally, we’re exploring collaborations with other brands and artists to create even more dynamic and memorable events. Our goal is to continue setting trends and leading the industry in innovative event management.
How do you balance your various roles and pursuits?
Balancing multiple roles requires careful planning, time management, and a strong support system. I prioritise my tasks, set clear goals, and ensure I dedicate time to each pursuit. It’s also important to delegate and trust my team to handle various aspects of my projects. Staying organised and maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial to avoid burnout and stay effective in all my roles.
Any advice for young professionals looking to make a mark in the industry?
My advice is to be authentic, work hard, and never stop learning. Build strong relationships and network with others in your industry. Don’t be afraid to take risks and step out of your comfort zone. Stay resilient in the face of setbacks, and always keep your vision and goals in sight. Passion and persistence are key to making a mark and achieving success.
What do you like to do in your free time?
In my free time, I enjoy reading, exploring new places, trying new cuisines, and drinking a bottle of wine. I also have a passion for music, so I often find myself discovering new artists and genres. Staying active through fitness is important to me as well. Additionally, I love to design spaces and rebuild, which allows me to express my creativity and create unique environments.
How do you describe your personal style?
I’m a minimalist and a tastemaker. I don’t like bold designs and brand names plastered on my outfits. I prefer to keep things simple and understated, but I love to play with my hair and incorporate accessories to add a unique touch. For me, less is more.
What’s your favourite childhood memory?
My favourite childhood memory was being the new kid in every school. We travelled and moved a lot; at one point, I was even home-schooled. Despite all the moving around, my mom always spoiled us with love, making each place feel like home.
Who inspires you the most, and why?
I draw inspiration from many people, but Almighty God and my mom are my greatest inspirations. Her resilience, hard work, and unwavering support have been a constant source of motivation. She taught me the value of integrity, perseverance, and the importance of following my dreams. Additionally, the movie The Godfather has been a significant inspiration because it taught me about loyalty, respect, and masculinity.
What’s one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
People might be surprised to know that I’m an introvert at heart. Despite my energetic and outgoing persona on stage and air, I value my alone time to recharge and reflect. It’s during these quiet moments that I gather my thoughts and draw inspiration for my work.
How do you handle criticism and negative feedback?
I view criticism and negative feedback as opportunities for growth. I listen carefully to understand the perspective being offered, and then assess whether the feedback is valid. Constructive criticism helps me improve and refine my skills. I try not to take negative comments personally and instead focus on how I can use them to better myself and my work.
What’s your favourite way to relax and unwind?
My favourite way to relax and unwind is through music, journaling, and letting my funky dark side come out to play, especially with a bottle of wine. I also love to light my candles or invest in a new fragrance, creating a cosy and soothing atmosphere that enhances my relaxation time. Additionally, my passion for collecting wine bottles adds to the enjoyment of my downtime.
As a hypeman, what does your process look like for getting crowds pumped up and engaged, and what’s your favourite part about being a hypeman?
My process for getting crowds pumped up involves a mix of preparation and reading the audience. I start by understanding the event and the type of crowd I’ll be engaging with. On stage, I feed off the crowd’s energy, using high-energy music, interactive chants, and positive vibes to get everyone excited. My favourite part about being a hypeman is my connection with the audience. There’s nothing like the collective energy of a crowd coming together, and knowing I played a part in creating that unforgettable experience is incredibly rewarding.