Today marks a personal milestone for me, as this newsletter coincides with my birthday. Yaaay! While I had a specific message prepared for the 26th, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to express my heartfelt gratitude to each of you who subscribed to my newsletter and engage with the contents.

For those who joined our community recently, let me take a moment to introduce myself beyond the words you find in my newsletters by sharing three facts about me.

1. Writing, for me, is more than a craft—it is a form of expression and therapy. Through recent self-reflection, I’ve come to embrace this aspect of myself. Whether addressing personal or professional matters, I can sometimes communicate thoughts that others may hesitate to voice, all in a bid to contribute positively to businesses and individual lives seeking guidance.
2. I am not one to shy away from challenges; I always seek growth beyond my comfort zone. This approach has significantly impacted my career growth. The courage to embrace the unfamiliar has allowed me to unravel my potential and, in turn, make meaningful contributions both professionally and personally.
3. This birthday holds extra significance for me as it marks the first since becoming a mother—a blessing that humbles me deeply. I am grateful for the opportunity to nurture and guide a new life. Now, to the heart of today’s message:

What’s in a name?

Some years ago, I had just resumed a new job and was being introduced to the team during the standup meeting. A colleague (not familiar with Nigerian names) chatted me up later to ask the meaning of “Bukola.” I shared that my full name is “Olubukola,” a Yoruba name translating to “God has added to wealth.” or “God made my wealth overflow.” He then replied, saying, “Wow! This must mean that you are bringing your wealth of knowledge and expertise to grow this organisation, so we should expect good things from you.”.  I laughed at his response, but afterwards, when I thought about it, he was right. I did impact the organisation positively. However, until that moment, it never occurred to me that my name had a meaning beyond material wealth.  It also made me reflect on a name’s impact beyond its literal meaning.

Even the biblical narrative of God changing Abram’s name to Abraham, meaning “Exalted Father” to “Father of Nations,” shows the profound impact a name change can have on one’s destiny. It signifies a shift in purpose and a broader, more encompassing identity. It also serves as a reminder that names are not meant to be static; they can evolve, adapt, and embody the potential for growth and positive change. The name “Olubukola,” for instance, has taken on new dimensions as I’ve navigated my career and life experiences, embodying not just the blessings of the past but the potential for a future filled with accomplishments and positive contributions.

Overcoming the  battle of self-identity

The journey to self-discovery sometimes comes with challenges; external pressures and conflicting narratives can create confusion and self-doubt. As our names can carry profound meanings, our self-identity can face challenges. In a world that is quick to judge and define, it’s easy for external pressures to cloud our understanding of who we are. In a world that also simplifies identities, staying true to oneself requires resilience and a strong commitment to self-acceptance, despite external opinions and prejudices. Besides my traditional name, I have for some time identified myself with the phrase “a city set on a hill.”I chose the name for its spiritual significance. So when I am battling with identity crises, it brings me back to the realisation of who I truly am and the greatness that I carry.

Names, whether given to us or chosen by us, have the potential to inspire, transform, and guide us on our path of self-discovery and realisation. I invite you to ponder your name, whether it is an English name, a name rooted in local culture, or a name with religious significance. Even if your name lacks an explicit meaning, you can choose to carve out significance or imbue it with qualities you aspire to embody. Choosing your name, apart from traditional ones tied to culture, family, or religion, can empower you to actively shape your identity, assert independence, and make a deliberate choice to define yourself on personal terms.

So, if you were to translate “a city set on a hill” as a name in your local dialect, what would my name be? Share in the comment; I am curious to know : )

Until next time,

Bukola Osuntuyi

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