By Chinedu Adonu
Popular Enugu-born relationship coach, Princess Joseph Okechukwu, who broke the Guinness World Record for the longest interviewing marathon by an individual has given reasons behind achieving such a feat. The Nkanu-born lady conducted interviews for 72 hours and 12 minutes, surpassing her initial target of 65 hours and 30 seconds.
The marathon, titled Kings’ Couples Palooza, began on Thursday, December 5, 2024, to December 8, 2024, at No. 61A Ezillo Independence Layout, Enugu, where Princess Okechukwu interviewed 103 participants, including couples, singles, widows, and divorced individuals, on topics related to relationships, marriage, and personal growth. Speaking with newsmen after achieving this feat, Princess Okechukwu thanked God for the opportunity to have achieved one of her biggest goals in life.
She stated that the zeal to inform the world about the beauty of marriage, its benefits, and more in a society that is gradually losing interest in family values prompted the Guinness World Record attempt. She posited that there is beauty in workable marriages, and its awareness needs to be made known to all, especially those who are already misinformed.
According to her: “This was about promoting the beauty of workable marriages and inspiring a renewed interest in family preservation.
The primary vision behind this record attempt was to show the world the beauty of workable marriage and stir the passion in them to desire them, thereby promoting marital rebirth and family preservation.
This prompted me to conduct in-depth interviews with over 100 couples and individuals, just to show the world the beauty of workable marriages and steps towards having great marriages. I believe that there is a need for global awareness of marital rejuvenation and family strengthening, according to UN Goal 16 (Peace, Family Strengthening).
There is a need to promote marital rebirth and family preservation through mutual respect, meaningful connections, understanding of gender roles and responsibilities, trust, and right communication in relationships.”
Princess Okechukwu also narrated the challenges and ordeals encountered during the Guinness World Record attempt, which she said almost demoralized her. However, her strong will and determination helped push her through.
“It was almost a failed mission. I had few individuals who believed in my vision, and to get the support of many was hard. A series of promises from people were not fulfilled.
But despite the absence of sponsors, physical supporters, and disappointment from expected and unexpected sources, I persevered and achieved my goal. Although I didn’t meet my initial proposed expectations, I believe that I delivered my best effort considering the resources available to me. My passion for promoting global awareness of marital rebirth and family preservation drove me forward, resonating deeply within me.
I sought to demonstrate that a determined girl-child can accomplish extraordinary feats despite obstacles, as long as she believes in herself. Another source of my motivation was to make my husband, children, family, community, state, and country proud.”
She, however, thanked all those who availed their time, resources, and more to ensure a successful outing, while also urging everyone to join hands in strengthening the marital institution across the globe.
“I am grateful to everyone who supported me throughout this endeavor, including the participants, volunteers, and witnesses. This achievement would not have been possible without their collective efforts.
As I look to the future, I am excited to continue promoting the importance of relationships, marriages, family, and community building. This record attempt has inspired me to pursue new initiatives and projects that foster meaningful connections and personal growth. Let us all join hands to make marriage a formidable institution for societal growth across the globe.”
Reports also have it that independent witnesses and timekeepers verified the record attempt, ensuring all guidelines were followed during the Guinness World Record attempt, while volunteers also provided logistical support throughout the event.
