In a casual yet impactful TikTok post, former child star JoJo Siwa revealed a significant personal shift: she is now going by the name Joelle Siwa. The internet, true to form, paused, replayed, and collectively wondered about the reason behind this change. Is this a full rebrand, a personal reset, or simply JoJo being her authentic self? While the answer unfolds, the name 'Joelle' itself has captured widespread attention for its profound meaning.
From JoJo to Joelle: A Symbol of Growth
JoJo Siwa, who grew up in the public eye as a high-energy performer known for oversized bows, glitter, and boundless confidence, has been openly transforming over the past few years. She has not framed this as a legal name change. However, in the world of Gen Z, a TikTok bio update often serves as a platform for announcing soft, personal transformations. This move is widely seen as a "this is who I am now" moment rather than a formal legal declaration.
The shift from "JoJo" to "Joelle" signals a notable evolution. The name JoJo felt playful, bubbly, and perfectly aligned with her child-star persona. In contrast, Joelle sounds more grounded, mature, and elegant. It represents someone stepping into their own skin, moving beyond a performed version of their past self.
The Deep Meaning and Roots of 'Joelle'
So, why did she choose Joelle? The name carries significant weight and heritage. Joelle has French and Hebrew origins and is considered the feminine form of Joel. Its most common meaning translates to "The Lord is God."
Beyond the literal translation, the name Joelle is frequently associated with qualities like inner strength, grace, clarity, and confidence. For someone whose identity was heavily branded from a very young age, choosing a name that embodies these traits can be a powerful act of self-definition. Embracing "Joelle" can feel like reclaiming ownership of her identity after years of being defined by a public persona.
A Relatable Evolution: Names and Identity
Names hold immense power, carrying our identity, intention, and sometimes a path to healing. JoJo Siwa's decision to introduce herself as Joelle resonates deeply with many who have outgrown earlier versions of themselves. It highlights a universal experience of personal evolution.
This change is not about erasing the past—the energetic, bow-wearing JoJo remains a part of her story. Instead, it is about expanding beyond it. It signifies growth and the natural journey of maturing in the public eye. The move from a playful nickname to a formal, meaningful given name reflects a person aligning their external identity with their internal sense of self.
The internet's reaction, filled with curiosity and support, shows how such personal milestones can spark broader conversations about identity, authenticity, and the courage to redefine oneself at any stage of life.
