Zaya Wade from Viral Transition to Pioneering Astrobiology in 2026

While many “nepo babies” struggle to find an identity outside of their famous parents, Zaya Wade has spent the last six years crafting a legacy that is entirely her own. As the daughter of NBA legend Dwyane Wade and stepdaughter of actress Gabrielle Union, Zaya has transitioned from a child in the front row of basketball games to a global icon of Gen-Z authenticity and LGBTQ+ advocacy.

The 2020 Transition

Much like the “accent crisis” of other rising stars, Zaya’s journey into the spotlight began with a pivotal moment centered on her voice. In February 2020, at just 12 years old, Zaya sat her parents down and told them she was ready to live her truth as a trans girl.

The public announcement on The Ellen DeGeneres Show sparked a global conversation about parenting and gender identity. Since then, Zaya’s “voice” hasn’t just been about her own identity—it’s been about legal affirmation.

In early 2023, she successfully filed for a legal name and gender change in Los Angeles, a milestone her father celebrated as a necessary step for her to move through the world with dignity and protection.

A High-Fashion Powerhouse

Zaya’s arrival in the fashion world wasn’t a slow burn. it was an explosion. She quickly moved from Instagram influencer to a runway mainstay, proving she had the editorial “edge” to back up her name.

• Runway Debut: She made waves with her runway debut for Miu Miu at Paris Fashion Week in 2023.
• Editorial Success: She has graced the covers of DAZED, Seventeen, and CR Fashion Book, often styled in avant-garde looks that challenge traditional gender norms.
• Brand Ambassador: As of 2025, she has maintained lucrative partnerships with Puma and MAC Cosmetics, cementing her status as a “fashion girlie” with staying power.

“Translatable” and Family Advocacy

Beyond the glitz of the runway, Zaya’s most significant contribution is the Translatable Project, which she co-founded with her father.

“It’s not the kids who need to change; it’s the adults. We wanted to create a space where parents could learn alongside their children.” — Dwyane Wade on the inspiration behind Translatable.

Launched in May 2024, Translatable serves as a digital sanctuary for LGBTQ+ youth, specifically focusing on communities of color.

The platform provides resources for “vision boarding,” educational tools for parents, and safe spaces for creative expression. In 2025, Gabrielle Union reinforced this mission at the Oscars, famously stating that the family’s advocacy is about being “ten toes down” in support of Zaya’s right to a safe and joyful life.

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The Next Astrobiology Era (2026)

As of January 2026, Zaya is officially in her “Collegiate Era.” While she continues to model during semester breaks, her primary focus has shifted from the runway to the laboratory.

Zaya is currently a freshman majoring in Astrobiology. She has jokingly described herself as a “huge nerd” who is fascinated by the possibility of life in space. While her parents admitted in late 2025 that they can no longer help with her science homework, they remain her biggest cheerleaders as she navigates the complexities of university life, “situationships,” and keeping her grades in the A-range.

Quick Facts: Zaya Wade