Considering Ethiopian parents choose biblical names for their children, my name became a distinctive topic of discussion. My Ethiopian community lacked awareness regarding the rarity of my name, which resembled the small and less-known ethnic group of my parents called “Gurage.” At a young age, I would shy away from saying it, pronouncing it, or even declaring it when anyone asked. I would whisper it and listen to their remarks on its validity. 

While tentative about my name in the Ethiopian community, I experienced an exceedingly different response in America. I would have people tell me at school, restaurants, or events that my name means ‘beloved,’ 'loveable,' and 'worthy of love' (Vance). I remember people would go as far as to tell my parents that they hoped to name their daughters something that indirectly meant “love.” A feeling of uncertainty stirred within me, leading me to contemplate embracing the American interpretation of my name because of the feasibility and beauty associated with the American understanding. While navigating this internal uncertainty, I realized this would never live up to the power and authenticity of everything I represent.

Throughout this journey of introspection, I developed a deep appreciation for the inherent significance embedded in the definition of my name. As I grew, I began to understand that "ኤማንዳ" in Amharic is more than just letters woven together. They are a testament to the dreams and aspirations my parents harbored when they christened me in Atlanta, Georgia, far from the Ethiopian soil that birthed them. My name encapsulates the essence of their journey, symbolizing the beginning chapter of their lives into a blessed future, with me as their first child, first daughter, and the first embodiment of their dreams. As I embrace the multifaceted nature of my name, I recognize that it is a story in itself—a story that intertwines personal stories, cultural nuances, and historical threads. A meaning worthy of telling. 

Works Cited

Siratu, Melesse. Interview. Conducted by Amanda Gebre. 28 Feb. 2024.

Campbell, Mike. “Meaning, Origin and History of the Name Amanda.” Behind the Name, 5 Apr. 2022, www.behindthename.com/name/amanda

McNamara, Emily. “Amanda.” Amanda - Baby Name Meaning, Origin and Popularity, 9 Feb. 2024, www.thebump.com/b/amanda-baby-name

Vance, Alex. “What Does the Name Amanda Mean?” Verywell Family, 14 July 2021, www.verywellfamily.com/amanda-name-meaning-origin-popularity-5181550