Asu: My Story Asu is not just a name, it is a symbol of my identity, my heritage, and my journey. As a young girl growing up in Nigeria, I remember feeling proud every time someone asked me my name. It means "Sunday," the day of the week I was born, and it carries a deep cultural significance in my Igbo community. But my pride in my name was often challenged when I moved to the United States as a teenager. People would mispronounce it or make fun of it, highlighting my "otherness" and making me feel like an outsider. It took me some time to realize that my name was not the problem, but rather the ignorance and narrow-mindedness of those who couldn't appreciate its beauty and meaning. As I embraced my name and all that it represents, I also discovered a passion for storytelling and journalism. I became determined to use my voice and my platform to amplify marginalized voices and share stories that help bridge cultural divides. I pursued my dream by studying journalism in college and working for various media outlets, including CNN and NBC. But I never forgot my roots or the struggles that inspired me. I made it a point to cover issues that affect the African diaspora and to mentor young journalists from underrepresented communities. Asu has become more than just a name to me. It is a reminder of where I come from and a symbol of the values I hold dear. It inspires me to keep telling stories that matter and to keep fighting for a more inclusive and just world.