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5 March is Learn What Your Name Means Day!
Yep, it sounds kinda silly but when you think about it, names are synonymous with identity, heritage and family history, and so a name is so much more than just a word.
Many South African parents choose names in reference to the clan to which their child is born, and others, in honour of God, home or family members.
But not all are as lucky to know the special meaning of their name.
So, this Learn What Your Name Means Day, find out the significance of your and your children's names.
You might learn a lot about yourself in the process. It could give you something to aspire to, since names often speak to inspiring qualities or actions to live up to.
And right now, there has never been a better time to step up to your name and be the change the world needs.
Both famous and ordinary South Africans are doing just that.
- The top South African baby names of the last 5 years
- These young champions are flying SA's flag high
- 97 cool baby names local celebs gave their kids
With the intent to rally South Africans to do good and to see the good in others and our country, Sanlam has launched it’s #NeverBeenABetterTime social initiative and here the life insurance company provide a few examples of well-known South Africans living up to their name.
Phumzile – She who made us rest
Recipient of last year’s Cannes Lionheart Award, Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka is an incredible inspiration to people around the world.
A teacher who went on to become Deputy President of South Africa, she’s now Executive Director of UN Women and a fierce advocate for women, human rights and social justice everywhere.
As one of the most respected humanitarians in history, she makes us rest easier in the knowledge that a better world for our girls is possible, but we all need to fight for it.
Trevor – Ambitious
The legendary home-grown jokester came from humble roots and now hosts The Daily Show – the American hit satirical news programme.
Writer, producer, actor, TV host, comedian, political commentator; there’s no end to Trevor’s talents, the most recent of which being his tennis forehand which floored Federer (not quite, but almost) during the epic Federer-Nadal charity showdown.
Keep shining a spotlight on SA for all the right reasons, Trevor!
Thulisile – She who made things quiet
The people’s champion and a fierce advocate for justice. Prof Thuli Madonsela was the makhadzi our country needed. A legendary Public Protector who gave South Africans a voice.
Dignified, calm and collected, she never shied away from doing the right thing, even when that came with a formidable fight.
From investigating Malema’s kickbacks to Zuma’s dodgy home upgrades, she held everyone equally accountable to the values outlined in the Constitution she helped draft.
Today, she remains a guiding light for spotless ethics and doing what’s right.
Siyamthanda – We love him
Oh, captain, our captain, we really do love you! Siya and his team helped unite South Africa when we really needed it. Their performance at the Rugby World Cup made us extremely proud.
But it was also their humility, quiet strength and grace off the field that really won our hearts. Raised by his grandmother, Siya had a tough early life.
It moulded him into a person who leads by his actions. He showed us just what’s possible when we pull together to achieve something.
What’s in a name? A huge amount of potential it turns out. This Learn What Your Name Means Day, find out what yours stands for, and pledge to live up to it this Name Day.
If you don't already know the meaning of your name, find out by checking out our lists of baby names below:
200 beautiful Xhosa baby names
Over 200 Zulu baby names for boys and girls
Basotho baby names for boys and girls
Tshivenda baby names for boys and girls
ABC of Setswana names
30 kick-ass baby names for girls
Eric and 29 other strong baby names for boys
Submitted by Sanlam.
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