Dwyane Wade and Daughter Zaya's Heartwarming Bond

Zaya Wade has a full-court bond with her father Dwyane Wade.

Together, this loving father-daughter pair showcased their teamwork with the introduction of Translatable – an online platform offering support, information, and resources for LGBTQIA+ youth and their families. However, it’s their strong bond at home and his unwavering advocacy during her personal journey as a transgender woman that truly makes them shine.

17-year-old Zaya, who identifies as an African American, expressed her joy and appreciation for her father in an interview with Seventeen, published on February 24. Given his upbringing in a traditional Black household in Chicago, where the culture isn’t particularly welcoming towards queer individuals, Zaya hopes that her father’s open acceptance will encourage others to educate themselves about queerness instead of criticizing it.

Honestly, I can’t get enough of the connection between Zaya, Dwyane, and their unique family! You know, apart from being dad to Zaire (23), Dahveon (21), Xavier (11), and Kaavia (6)—with ex Siovaughn Funches, Zaire’s mom, and Gabrielle Union, respectively—they also share a common interest in a popular Netflix series that embraces queer themes. It’s just so heartwarming to see them bond over this shared love!

Zaya shared, “I’m a fan of marathon-viewing sessions, and that show is just adorable.” She continued, “My father and I have been catching up on Heartstopper together. One evening, he texted me, ‘Let’s have a movie night together. Join me in an hour.’ He arranged candies and popcorn. I was apprehensive since when parents ask you to watch something, it often feels like, ‘Oh no, here we go.’

As a lifestyle connoisseur, let me express that recently, I stumbled upon a captivating series titled “Heartstopper.” Upon hearing its name, I couldn’t help but exclaim, “Oh my goodness!” Given its queer narrative, it was already on my radar. To give you an idea, it was past one in the morning, and we were deep into episode 8 of 9 when this show was released. Every time a new installment comes out, there’s an instant buzz, a text message that reads, “Oh my goodness, the latest Heartstopper just dropped!

During the midst of fashion week, Zaya found herself momentarily crossing paths with Kit Connor, the star of the show they both adore. This encounter left her feeling starstruck, and she felt compelled to call the retired NBA star immediately to share her experience.

“That’s our thing,” she gushed. “We’re such big fans.”

Although my stepfather, Zaya’s cool dad when it comes to choosing TV shows, I can’t help but challenge him and my stepmother, Gabrielle, on their social media behavior.

Zaya commented, “Those dance videos she shares are her thing, but I really want to text her and say something like ‘Girl.’ You see, my dad is a guy, and he’ll likely react like one. Honestly, it’s the men as a whole that sometimes make me cringe.

She commented, “When my father attends a gathering dressed in a suit but without an undershirt, it’s as if I’d ask, ‘What’s the plan here?’ Similarly, when he shares fully shirtless photos on Instagram, I react with disapproval, thinking, ‘Not again. Not at all.’ Given that children use this platform too.

And Zaya has no problem shutting down their online behavior.

Occasionally, my friends might comment, ‘I’m not sure what I just saw on your dad’s Instagram,'” she replied. “To which I respond, ‘Let me handle that. Don’t fret.’ It’s just funny to me.

Keep reading for more of Dwyane’s moments with Zaya and the family…

2019 saw Dwyane Wade, a former Miami Heat player, marking the end of his NBA career with his wife Gabrielle Union and their daughter Kaavia by his side. His nephew, Dahveon Morris, along with children Zaire, Zaya (from his ex-wife Siohvaughn Funches), and son Xavier (with ex Aja Metoyer) were also present for this significant event.

On Halloween 2023, Gabrielle and Dwyane demonstrated a perfect pairing, much like peanut butter and jelly. At the same time, their child, Kaavia, enchanted everyone in her Cinderella costume.

The Bring It On actress snapped silly selfies with Kaavia on Mother’s Day 2023.

Create an enduring impact.

In January 2023, Dwyane Wade and his ex-partner Siovaughn Funches took their shared child, Zaya, to her school’s winter formal event.

As a lifestyle enthusiast, I firmly believe that sharing the ups and downs of life’s significant milestones with those who care for us is paramount. The jitters, the apprehension, the dread – these emotions seem insurmountable at times, but when surrounded by loved ones, we stand firm on both feet, ready to face any challenge that comes our way. Always.

2020 found me, Gabrielle, sharing a heartfelt moment on Instagram: “Look at us, both flaunting our natural curls!” When I unraveled my braids, Kaavia James looked at me just like that – pure joy and pride. It’s amazing how motherhood brings newfound connections, even in the shared beauty of our tresses!

At the 2019 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Sports Awards, the couple’s child, Kaavia, made her first appearance on a red carpet event. Notably, she handled it like a seasoned professional. (Spoiler: She was amazing!)

Following our family’s Thanksgiving gathering, Dwyane responded to Twitter critics with harsh words towards those posting unpleasant remarks.

He posted online, “After Thanksgiving, I encountered some negative comments about my family photo on social media. I understand that ignorance exists in our world, so I get it. However, I am the one entrusted to guide my family, not you. So we will carry on being ourselves, supporting each other with pride, love, and a smile!

Gabrielle rang in her 50th birthday in 2022 with snuggles from Dwyane and Kaavia.

The couple are all smiles as they celebrate Zaya’s 16th birthday in May 2023.

On Halloween 2019, Gabrielle and Dwyane had figured out a perfect costume idea for their little girl.

As Halloween 2019 approached, Gabrielle and Dwyane were ready with an ideal costume concept for their daughter.

However, hold on, there’s even more! In addition, the delighted parents switched to a different theme alongside their daughter Zaya as well.

Dwyane praised Zaya amid criticism from online trolls.

He expressed on the “All the Smoke” podcast in 2019 that when it comes to strength and courage, his twelve-year-old outshines him. He emphasized that there’s much to learn from children and in his household, this is a frequent topic of discussion – ensuring their kids are recognized by both parents, and that they comprehend the power in their words.

Following Gabrielle’s dismissal from America’s Got Talent in 2019, Dwyane stood firmly by his wife. He expressed this sentiment on Twitter with the words, “Men lie, Women lie, numbers don’t.” This statement was made after the news became public. In the time following, he has been frequently approached by people who credit Gabrielle for their interest in America’s Got Talent or admiration for her insight and sincerity on the show.

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2025-02-24 19:17

Dwyane Wade and Daughter Zaya’s Heartwarming Bond

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