What Is Zendaya’s Full Name? A Complete Look at the Star’s Background

When fans search for “What is Zendaya’s full name,” they are often looking for more than a simple fact. They want to understand the roots of a talent who has become a cultural icon in less than a decade. Zendaya Maree Stoermer‑Coleman, known professionally as Zendaya, was born on September 1, 1996, in Oakland, California. Her full name reflects a blend of family heritage and personal identity that has shaped her journey from Disney Channel star to Academy‑Award‑winning actress.

Early Life and Family Roots

Zendaya’s parents, Kazembe Coleman and Darnell “Dino” Stoermer‑Coleman, are both former athletes. Her mother played professional volleyball while her father was a football player. The surname “Coleman” comes from her mother’s side, whereas “Stoermer” honors her father’s lineage. Growing up in a multicultural household, Zendaya was exposed to a variety of artistic influences, from music to theater, which encouraged her early interest in performance.

How the Name “Zendaya” Came to Be

At age eight, Zendaya’s mother suggested the name “Zendaya,” which means “to give thanks” in the Shona language of Zimbabwe. The name resonated with the family’s appreciation for gratitude and perseverance. While “Zendaya” is her stage name, she has always kept her full legal name—Zendaya Maree Stoermer‑Coleman—on official documents and credits.

Career Milestones

Zendaya first captured public attention as Rocky Blue on the Disney Channel series Shake It Up (2010‑2013). Her breakout role demonstrated her ability to blend dance, comedy, and drama, earning her a Teen Choice Award and establishing her as a teen icon. Transitioning to more mature projects, she starred in the HBO series Euphoria, where her portrayal of Rue Bennett garnered a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series.