Embarking on the journey of entrepreneurship with Reddi has been a whirlwind adventure, filled with triumphs, trials, and transformative lessons. Over the past two years, I’ve been on a quest to redefine the landscape of dating, armed with determination, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to revolutionise how we approach relationships.
In a market dominated by a few behemoths, diving into the dating industry seemed like navigating treacherous waters. The space was saturated with well-established apps, predominantly owned by Match. Some would say it was a fool’s errand to attempt to carve out a niche amidst such giants. But I’ve never been one to shy away from a challenge.
From the outset, I knew that Reddi was destined to be more than just another dating app. It was conceived as a platform that would transcend mere matchmaking, fostering meaningful connections, prioritising attachment compatibility, and nurturing a sense of fulfilment and security in relationships.
Drawing from my extensive background in mental health spanning over 25 years, I recognised the profound impact that attachment styles have on the dynamics of relationships. Infusing this understanding into the fabric of Reddi became a cornerstone of our vision.
However, navigating the turbulent waters of innovation in an industry resistant to change was no easy feat. Reddi wasn’t simply a dating app; it was a disruptor challenging the status quo. Yet, with each obstacle we encountered, I remained steadfast in my conviction that we were pioneering a new era in dating—one that prioritised authenticity, compatibility, and emotional well-being.
As we chart our course into 2024, Reddi underwent a metamorphosis, evolving from a conventional dating app into a personalised matchmaking platform. Our focus shifted towards offering a holistic approach to dating, blending online convenience with offline intimacy. Central to this evolution was the introduction of our open network—an innovative feature designed to democratise matchmaking and broaden the horizons of our members.
For a nominal fee, equivalent to the price of a few cups of coffee a week, members gain access to an expansive network of matchmaking agencies and personalised services. But don’t be fooled, the price doesn’t reflect the calibre of our members. We also transitioned to a less is more approach, focussing more on the quality of our members, rather than the quantity. With that we now hold a substantial waitlist of applications, which is review periodically by our membership team, with the majority of our members having now been invited.
My personal journey as an entrepreneur mirrors the ethos of Reddi—a testament to resilience, determination, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. From humble beginnings as a mental health practitioner to founding a tech startup, my path has been unconventional (and perhaps viewed by others as a little silly) yet deeply fulfilling.
Raised in an environment where self-made success was revered, I imbibed the values of perseverance, self-reliance, and audacity from an early age. My academic journey, marked by struggles and setbacks, culminated in the attainment of advanced degrees and the realisation of my entrepreneurial aspirations. I was a C and D student – I now have a MSc and I did my first degree at 29 (mental health nursing) and my second at 37.
As a solo IVF parent aged 41, I confronted the stark realities of fertility and parenthood with courage and resilience. My journey into motherhood underscored the importance of seizing control of one’s destiny, defying societal norms, and embracing the unconventional path less travelled. This journey of course, as well as my own 10-year dating history providing the significant motivating factors to turn up for work each day.
In my role as a mental health educator, I am impassioned by the intricacies of the human psyche and committed to promoting psychological well-being. My diverse skill set, ranging from cognitive behavioural therapies to motivational interviewing, informs my approach to entrepreneurship and product development. It is my view that the relationship industry can play a serious role in reducing poor mental health outcomes, and I am prepared to force this change amongst my peers.
Despite the inevitable challenges and setbacks encountered along the way, my resolve to redefine dating with Reddi remains steadfast. As a reluctant lone ranger, I thrive on adversity, channelling my resilience and determination into every endeavour.
With Reddi, I aspire to empower individuals to navigate the complexities of modern dating with confidence, authenticity, and grace. My entrepreneurial journey is far from over, and with each hurdle overcome, I emerge stronger, wiser, and more resolute in my mission to transform the world of dating—one match at a time.
