In 1994, the world watched on as the walls of an apartheid regime came crashing down. Out of the revolution, there emerged a newness in the air of South Africa. New life. New hope. Thembelihle. Listen as South-African born poet Thembe shares the story of her full Xhosa name, exploring themes of struggle, resistance and freedom. 

If you’re interested in sharing your name-story, please do drop us an email: [email protected]. 

We’re also on Instagram too! Follow us @noshameinmynamepod

In Ghana, Paa Kwesi is a popular name, reserved especially for males born on a Sunday. As Darren’s middle name, it not only offers a rich opening to his culture, but reminds him of home and all the fond memories that it brings. Listen as he pays homage to his roots, in this intriguing account.

If you’re interested in sharing your name-story, please do drop us an email: [email protected]

We’re also on Instagram too! Follow us @noshameinmynamepod

Throughout school and university, Kevwe was known by his English middle name; David. However, several challenging and awkward moments would bring him to confidently embrace his Urhobo first name, whilst diligently teaching others how to pronounce it correctly too. Listen as he discloses how he has navigated this journey, from lecture halls to the workplace. 

If you’re interested in sharing your name-story, please do drop us an email: [email protected]. 

We’re also on Instagram too! Follow us @noshameinmynamepod.

*This episode was recorded remotely. Audio may have some distortion. Apologies in advance.*

Roser’s name is a rarity, typically pronounced with a ‘rolling r’ in the region of Catalonia where it originates. In other parts of the world, it has taken on other playful variations. Listen as she explores the impact of her name; so embellished with powerful symbolism and familial sentiment. 

If you’re interested in sharing your name-story, please do drop us an email: [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram too! Follow us @noshameinmynamepod.

*This episode was recorded remotely. Audio may have some distortion. Apologies in advance.*

Akwa Ibom is a state in the deep South region of Nigeria, known for its captivating natural beauty and its wealth of natural resources. It is also home to Fitness Coach & Writer; Ime Bassey. Listen as he shares how the powerful meaning of his name continues to shape him through his journey of faith, family & fitness.

If you’re interested in sharing your name-story, please do drop us an email: [email protected]. 

We’re also on Instagram too! Follow us @noshameinmynamepod.

*This episode was recorded remotely. Audio may have some distortion. Apologies in advance.*

Caleb is rarely referred to by his Yoruba middle name, Oluwadara. Its meaning however, speaks to the wonder of his birth. And, the remarkable gift of life itself. Listen as he shares the stories of his name with a charming poise, ending on a powerful note. 

If you’re interested in sharing your name-story, please do drop us an email: [email protected]. 

We’re also on Instagram too! Follow us @noshameinmynamepod.

*This episode was recorded remotely. Audio may have some distortion. Apologies in advance.*

In recent years, Tryphena’s middle name prompted an eager curiosity about her Edo roots. It has drawn her in closer proximity to her culture, whilst gently affirming her forward thinking approach to life. Listen as she tells her story of discovery with a simple and heartfelt appreciation. 

If you’re interested in sharing your name-story, please do drop us an email: [email protected]. 

We’re also on Instagram too! Follow us @noshameinmynamepod.

*This episode was recorded remotely. Audio may have some distortion. Apologies in advance.*

Jasminder’s full name is intricately tied to her identity, reflecting the diversity of her own mixed family background. Indian, English and Nigerian. Listen as she humorously unravels her pursuit of acceptance, in a brilliant narrative that probes universal questions related to history, humanity and home. 

If you’re interested in sharing your name-story, please do drop us an email: [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram too! Follow us @noshameinmynamepod.

*This episode was recorded remotely. Audio may have some distortion. Apologies in advance.*

The meaning of Elom’s name offers a gentle insight into her Ewe heritage, her faith in God and a reminder of His love. However, names for her, are not the be-all and end-all, but simply the beginning of the story. Listen as she boldly explores this perspective, whilst opening up an interesting debate about the emphasis conventionally placed on names.

If you’re interested in sharing your name-story, please do drop us an email: [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram too! Follow us @noshameinmynamepod. *This episode was recorded remotely. Audio may have some distortion. Apologies in advance.*

For Somalia-born, Sheffield-bred activist; Magid Magid, names have always welcomed fascinating conversation. His own unique name, has faced its own fair share of intrigue, both positive and negative. Listen as he playfully reminisces on his experiences, touching on his time in education, through to his run as the youngest ever Lord Mayor of his beloved city. 

If you’re interested in sharing your name-story, please do drop us an email: [email protected]. 

We’re also on Instagram too! Follow us @noshameinmynamepod.

*This episode was recorded remotely. Audio may have some distortion. Apologies in advance.*