Zaya Wade looked more beautiful and confident than ever at the Moana 2 premiere on Monday night. The teenager has experienced more in her 17 years of life than many have in their whole lives. As she walked the red carpet, Wade served as an inspiration for teens struggling with their identities. See her gorgeous premiere look and learn more about the budding model here.
Dwyane Wade, Zaya Wade, and Gabrielle Union at the 2020 Better Brothers LA Truth Awards | Andrew Toth/Getty Images
Zaya Wade’s name may sound familiar. The oldest daughter of NBA superstar Dwyane Wade is part of a blended family. Zaya’s father and stepmother, also famous Gabrielle Union, play a big role in her upbringing. Born on May 29, 2007, as Zion Malachi Airamis Wade, Zaya has three siblings. Zaire, 22, is her older brother. They share a mother, Dwyane’s ex-wife Siohvaughn Funches. Zaya and Zaire have two half-siblings, Kaavia, 6, and Xavier, 11, whom Dwyane shares with Union.
Dwyane Wade and his wife Siohvaughn at the 2006 ESPY Awards; Zaya Wade walks the runway during the Miu Miu Fall/Winter 2023-24 fashion show | Frazer Harrison/Getty Images; Victor VIRGILE/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images
At 12, Zaya told her parents she was a trans girl, beginning her gender transition after her family expressed support. Dwyane even told GMA that she’d known her true gender identity since age 3. In 2020, Zaya came out as transgender more publicly. She shared her journey with the media as her parents expressed their desire to show her unconditional love and understanding.
Dahveon Morris, Zaire Wade, Dwyane Wade, Kaavia Wade, Gabrielle Union, and Zaya Wade on October 25, 2024 | Alexander Tamargo/Getty Images for 4WRD
In addition to her family’s support, Zaya’s confidence and self-awareness have led her to the modeling world. In 2022, she made waves in the fashion industry by modeling for several brands and eventually signing with United Talent Agency.
Dwyane Wade and Gabrielle Union with Zaya Wade at the ‘Cheaper by the Dozen’ premiere in 2022 | CHRIS DELMAS/AFP
Her modeling debut included campaigns for big names like Tiffany & Co., which helped establish her presence in the industry. Now, she’s an ambassador for Puma and appeared on the covers of Dazed Magazine and HOMMEGIRLS Magazine.
Zaya Wade at the LA premiere of ‘Moana 2’ on November 25, 2024 | Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney
Since growing more comfortable on the runway, Zaya has shown off her unique personal style on the red carpet. At the Moana 2 premiere, she wore the Antoinette metallic brocade coat and mini dress by Staud. The vintage-inspired Californian label created the romantic, longline look that showed off Zaya’s glowing skin. The young model added gold earrings and gold pointed-toe heels.
Kaavia Union and Zaya Wade with Moana at the ‘Moana 2’ premiere at Hollywood’s El Capitan Theater | Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney
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Source:: Showbiz Cheat Sheet
