Where did your name come from?
My name, Iheoma Uzoma, carries with it not just words, but stories, blessings, and identity. In the Igbo culture of Nigeria, names are chosen with great care and are rarely given by chance. They reflect the hopes, prayers, and values of a family, serving as both a reminder of the past and a guide for the future. My name is no exception.
The first part of my name, Iheoma, translates to “a good thing” or “something good.” When my parents gave me this name, they were expressing gratitude and joy for my arrival. To them, my birth was not just an event but a blessing — a sign of goodness entering the family. The name serves as a daily reminder that my life is meant to bring positivity, hope, and light to others. It encourages me to carry myself with kindness, to look for the good in every situation, and to remember that I am seen as a gift.
My surname, Uzoma, means “the good road” or “a good path.” This name symbolizes more than just direction; it is a prayer for a purposeful and fulfilling life journey. It reflects my family’s desire that I always walk on paths that are honorable, blessed, and filled with opportunities. Every time I hear or write my surname, it reminds me to stay focused on integrity and to choose the right direction, no matter how difficult it may seem.
Together, Iheoma Uzoma carries a powerful and inspiring meaning: “a good thing walking on a good path.” This combination of names gives me both an identity and a mission. It ties me to my cultural heritage while also serving as a personal compass for how I should live. My name is more than just letters put together; it is a story of where I come from and a vision of where I am going.
I take pride in my name because it reminds me that I am part of something larger — my family, my culture, and the values that have been passed down through generations. It is both a gift and a responsibility, encouraging me to live in a way that honors its meaning.
The daily draft 