If more people were like Zaya Wade, the world would be a better place.
The 19-year-old trailblazer's future is undeniably bright as she continues to make her famous family proud. When she was just 12 years old, Wade came out as transgender and was fully embraced by her NBA Hall of Fame father Dwyane Wade and award-winning actress and stepmother Gabrielle Union.
Together, the family created a safe space for Zaya, where she's been able to use her platform to discuss her journey as a trans woman and give back to the LGBTQ+ community at large. Back in 2024, Dwyane and Zaya teamed up to launch Translatable, an online digital hub and nonprofit organization designed to educate queer youth and their families. She was named to the Out100 that year for her work.
Earlier this year, Translatable threw its second annual gala that celebrated individuality, ballroom culture, and the importance of community at a time when it's needed most for LGBTQ+ people.
"The political climate we're in right now is very intense. It feels like a mind field! We're being attacked from all sides at all times, but honestly, there's so much powers in numbers. No matter what people want to say, that doesn't define us. We're not taking responsibility for your fear and ignorance," Wade tells Out.
The public support that Zaya has received from her father has made a crucial impact on queer people around the world. Vital conversations have shifted in media, athletics, and culture overall as their powerful bond has inspired healthier dynamics for every type of family.
"My dad and grandparents grew up in certain environments that aren't conducive to queer identity, but that does not define them. They can change, they can grow, and I get this warm feeling in my body when I do these things and my family shows up. Our goal is to show the possibilities of acceptance. It's definitely a rare occurrence to have so many members of your blood family be so supportive. It really shows the feasibility of acceptance."
Although the Wade family is the definition of unconditional love, many in the LGBTQ+ community haven't had the same level of comfort or acceptance in their own homes. Despite the support she's received from a young age, Zaya can still relate to the struggles that are facing queer people today.
"You're not alone. We're all scared and worried, but you can still exist in your Pride. Generally speaking, Pride is something we feel in ourselves and it's something we can cultivate on our own. You can still experience it in your own way. Pride is something that can exist outside and in your own home!"
As an outspoken and brave transgender woman, Zaya is making it clear that she has no time for negativity, especially in the comment section. While hateful rhetoric consistently presents itself online, she refuses to pay the haters any attention.
"I would love to find a more eloquent way to say it, but that just has to be the dumbest thing I've heard of in my entire life. I've definitely received so much hate in the past, present, and potentially the future. It's hard to relate or even understand people like that, but if there's anyone in this world, our community understands empathy more than anything. We are such forgiving and loving people and I love that about us."
Fans can support Zaya Wade by following her on Instagram and learning more about Translatable by visiting the official website here.
