Phyna, winner of the Big Brother Naija Level Up season, has spoken candidly about her painful upbringing, revealing that she dislikes the name “Blessing,” which was given to her by her parents.
In a recent interview, the reality television star explained that the name feels disconnected from her childhood experiences, which she said were far from the “blessings” it suggests.
According to Phyna, her early years were marked by emotional struggles and a constant search for love and acceptance from family, friends, and romantic partners. She said those efforts often ended in rejection and harsh criticism.
The Edo-born reality star described her upbringing as “crazy,” noting that she missed out on several opportunities and support systems that many of her peers enjoyed while growing up.
Despite the challenges, Phyna said she remained confident that her circumstances would one day change. She recalled frequently telling members of her extended family that she would eventually become successful and famous.
“The name given to me by my parents is Blessing. My reason for hating that name is that I don’t see a sense of blessing in my life,” she said. “It felt like I was always begging for love – family love, friendship, even in relationships.”
She added that growing up was extremely difficult, explaining that she lacked the support many teenagers receive from their parents and relatives.
However, Phyna said she always believed she was destined for greatness.
“Even when my aunts beat or maltreated me, I would tell them they would watch me on television and I would have money,” she recalled.
Her eventual victory in the Level Up edition of Big Brother Naija marked a turning point in her life, transforming her from a struggling young woman into one of Nigeria’s most recognised reality TV personalities.
