In the latest episode of CNN’s African Voices, Larry Madowo speaks with Arlette Amuli and BM Matundu, creators of the viral dating show ‘Pop the Balloon or Find Love’, about building a global digital brand, expanding into new markets, and turning online attention into business opportunities.
Matundu explains that the idea for the show grew from an online trend he wanted to transform into a more meaningful format. Despite limited resources and no previous hosting experience, the couple launched the programme in 2023, with Amuli taking on the role of host. Reflecting on the early days of the project, Matundu tells Madowo, “Let’s just give it a go,” while Amuli recalls initially doubting the concept would succeed.
Discussing the show’s rapid growth, the pair explain how short clips shared across social media helped attract a global audience. Matundu says he strategically partnered with large online platforms to promote the first episodes, creating clips designed to encourage viewers to seek out the full programme. Amuli adds that the show’s popularity has since taken on a life of its own, saying, “We don’t even really have to post anymore to get people, they just do it for us.”
The episode explores how the format has evolved from generating viral moments to creating genuine relationships. Matundu explains, “At the beginning people was looking at all the viral moments. Now people are actually following the storylines, the true love stories.” Amuli notes that audiences have become increasingly invested in successful matches, revealing that viewers are often disappointed when episodes end without a connection being made.
Madowo also asks the pair about growing competition following the show’s success. While acknowledging that numerous versions of the format have emerged around the world, Matundu believes the strength of their brand lies in its unique presentation. He says, “Our format is what people
love,” highlighting the distinctive production style and Amuli’s role as host. He adds, “Nobody can host like my wife hosts on the show.”
The interview also examines the creators’ efforts to expand their business internationally. The pair recently launched a Lingala-language version of the show aimed at Congolese audiences around the world. Explaining the motivation behind the project, Matundu says, “I want to put our country on the map,” while Amuli notes that producing the show in Lingala has helped celebrate Congolese culture and reconnect diaspora audiences with the language.
Beyond the show itself, Amuli and Matundu discuss the launch of their new dating platform, ‘Love or Pop’, which incorporates elements of the programme into a mobile application. The app includes features designed to encourage more intentional relationships, including a “match-lock” function that prevents users from messaging multiple people simultaneously. Explaining the idea, Matundu says, “People just don’t take relationships seriously… here you have to behave,” while Amuli says the platform is designed for users who are “serious” and “intentional” about finding a partner.
Reflecting on the wider impact of the business, the couple point to the marriages, engagements and long-term relationships that have emerged through the platform. Matundu says, “We’re changing people’s lives,” adding that successful matches remain one of the venture’s greatest achievements.
Looking to the future, Amuli and Matundu reveal ambitions to further expand both the show and their dating platform. Amuli says she hopes ‘Love or Pop’ will “blow all other dating apps out of the water,” while Matundu envisions building a larger business that creates opportunities for others. He tells Madowo, “It’s about giving back at the end.”
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Author: Tshegofatso Nkubone from Burson Africa on behalf of CNN.
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