POLOKWANE – South Africa is a rainbow nation and therefore compromises of a variety of cultures and traditions.
Limpopo is a province with many cultures and most people inherit their names from their great grandparents and aunts and uncles.
Review spoke to several learners in Polokwane to find out what their first names mean.
Khuthadzo Chongo is a Vhenda whose name means comfort and says his mum told him he was given that time as when he was born he comforted the family from all the challenges that they faced in the past.Mmathabo Mamabolo said “My name means mother of joy and happiness. I am always reminded of how much happiness and joy I have brought my family when I was born. I am a Pedi girl and very proud of my culture,” she said.
Rivele Languta said that her name is ancestral and means to forget, usually the past or past mistakes which hinder someone from progressing in life. “My parents say that they use my name to lead a positive life,” she said.Ntombi Phasha said, “My name means lady in IsiZulu. I am told I was named Nthombi short for Ntombikayize which translates to lady or girl,” she said.Hamza Joomo is Muslim and said that his name means brave lion or a brave, strong someone. “It’s a name which I inherited form my family,” he said.Jayshil Mistry said that his name is Hindi and means joyful or is often given to a person who brings joy and happiness to other people.
Names make us unique and at times guides us in terms of how to behave, for instance those who are named Lerato (Love) are said to posses love and share it with everyone and Lethabo (Joy) are said to bring happiness and joy to other people.
