### Background Free The Name is a research project that explores the complexity of names and where they come from. We focus on why names are written the way they are today, reflecting on why this can influence their pronunciation, meaning, cultural & personal perception.

What is transliteration?

Transliteration is the act of changing words, sounds or names from one writing or language system to another. This is a very normal practice used by all languages and cultures when adapting words for different linguistic contexts. However, this process can sometimes create changes that alter the original sounds or meaning, leading to names that may not fully reflect their cultural or historical significance.

Why is it important?

During colonial times, many African names were transliterated for official document registration, divided in branches of standardization to fit each country of colony. The same names would appear in different ways under French, British, Belgian or German rule, depending on their regularization practices. Each country prioritized their own understanding and pronunciation based on their official language. Despite modern scholars have developed several ethnic alphabets after this time to better reflect the unique aspects of African languages and alphabets, this is the context behind the names that are still in use today in legal documents in many parts of Africa.

Understanding Transliteration

Transliteration happens because of phonetic limitations, script differences, colonial influence, loss of cultural context or misinterpretation.When applied to naming, this phenomenon leads to personal names that may not fully reflect their cultural or historical significance.Understanding transliteration helps reconnect to the origins of names, preserving their sound, meaning, and identity.

A Reflection on Identity

With “A Reflection on Identity”. We connect with individuals. Together we explore the origins and stories behind their names through culture, conversations, history and the study of transliteration. We celebrate the new identity with a photoshoot session and a physical event.

With “A Reflection on Identity”. We connect with individuals. Together we explore the origins and stories behind their names through culture, conversations, history and the study of transliteration. We celebrate the new identity with a photoshoot session and a physical event.

Conclusions

Periodically a group of people that takes part in “A Reflection on Identity” to explore the meaning and stories behind their names. We continue to support defining-self and finding one’s own identity.

Photography by: Karim El Maktafi Branding & Creative Direction: Balla Diagne IT Developer: Kalidou Diagne Special thanks to: Ousmane Diagne, Ndeye Anta Diagne, Fatou Sarr, Fatima Soumahoro, Francesca Hadija Sanné, Awa Thioube.

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