When an Senegalese American girl starts school in a people can't pronounce her name properly. Later at home, his parents remind her of how special she is and how her unique name reflects that.


My name is Mamediarra

Mamediarra standing in the classroom with a bright smile, the teacher in the background looking perplexed with a list of names in hand

Mamediarra was excited for her first day of school. As soon as she walked in, the teacher struggled to say her name. 'Mama... Mame... Mar...?' the teacher tried.

The First Day of School

Mamediarra sitting at her desk, looking down with a slight frown as kids around her giggle

Mamediarra felt a little sad that no one could say her name right. Some kids even giggled when the teacher stumbled over it. She wondered why her name had to be so hard for others to pronounce.

Feeling Different

Mamediarra in her mother's embrace at home, a warm and comforting kitchen background

When Mamediarra got home, she told her parents about her day. Her mom hugged her tight and said, 'Your name is special, just like you. It's a piece of our culture and who you are. Embrace it.'

Special Name, Special Me

Mamediarra standing confidently in the classroom, with other kids looking on with respect

The next day at school, Mamediarra stood up tall and proud when the teacher called her name. 'It's Mamediarra,' she said clearly. The other kids listened, and soon they were all saying her name right. Mamediarra smiled, feeling happy and accepted.