This was the BEST fun and perfect idea! Thank you Zoo Atlanta. Now Isa was my choice however I do love Zuri. When I Googled the name Zuri every single definition included beauty. I like to think of it as beauty inside and outside. My favorite definition was “The name Zuri has its origins in the Swahili language. It carries a beautiful and positive meaning, making it an appealing choice for parents.” Names are so important and I take great joy in selecting the perfect name for the future because a name determines so much. So let’s say hello to Zuri! 

Photo Credit: Jodi Carrigan

When keeping tabs on Rhino Naming Madness I was just tickled pink at this message from Zoo Atlanta:

"Get ready to say hello to … Zuri!

Rhino Naming Madness was a whirlwind, with four rounds of public voting and a final square-off Championship Round this week! We’re thrilled to announce that after thousands of votes and herds of bracket predictions, the rhino calf has been named Zuri.

Be on the lookout for the calf and mom Kiazi next time you’re at the Delta Air Lines Rhino Habitat, and see how our “little” new arrival, the first southern white rhino ever born at Zoo Atlanta, matches up with her name!"

"The first southern white rhino calf ever born at Zoo Atlanta has a name! Rhino Naming Madness concluded on April 10, 2024, with the name Zuri rising to the top after four rounds of public voting following the launch of a Sweet Sixteen Bracket on March 20."

“Zuri, a name of Swahili origin which can mean “beautiful,” was one of more than 4,000 online submissions entered between March 7 and March 10, when the public was invited to suggest names to compete with nine monikers provided by the Zoo’s Rhino Care Team. Zoo Atlanta’s naming committee selected seven names from the pool of public submissions to form the Sweet Sixteen.”

I had so much fun with this. Did you? How did your brackets play out? Were you #TeamZuri or #TeamIsa? Do share!