Gabrielle Union Shares How Happy Stepdaughter Zaya Wade Is During Her First Year of College
Zaya Wade and Gabrielle Union in 2022.
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### Gabrielle Union Discusses Stepdaughter Zaya Wade’s Inspiring College Journey
Gabrielle Union has shared that her stepdaughter, Zaya Wade, is flourishing during her first year of college. Union spoke exclusively with PEOPLE, detailing Zaya’s passion for science and her happiness in pursuing her studies.
In a recent interview, Union, who is married to NBA star Dwyane Wade, expressed her pride in Zaya, 18, stating, “She’s very, very happy” as she dives into her scientific interests. Zaya has connected with peers who share her enthusiasm for research and astrobiology.
“I’m gonna say that [Dwayne and I] probably failed in that department,” Union joked, recalling moments when Zaya would speak about complex topics that left the couple scrambling to keep up. “She’s working with some of the world’s leading biologists, so she’s very, very happy where she’s at.”
In addition to her academic pursuits, Zaya is also a vocal LGBTQ+ activist. She came out as transgender in 2020 and has consistently advocated for the importance of queer rights.
Gabrielle Union, Zaya Wade and Dwyane Wade at the Out100 Celebration in L.A. on Dec. 11, 2024.
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During the interview, Union offered guidance to parents supporting children along similar journeys. “Lead with love and make it clear that your child is not disposable,” she advised. Union emphasized the importance of creating a safe space for open dialogue, stating, “As long as you start with, ‘My child is not disposable,’ you kinda can’t go wrong after that.”
Union also touched upon another personal topic: menopause. Reflecting on the experience, she noted its potential for change and transformation. “It challenges you to look at life differently and not as an ending, but as a beginning,” she said.
Expressing her past feelings of isolation, Union added, “Initially, I felt shame. I felt my value as a woman was diminishing. I felt isolated. And over time, now, I feel empowered, and I’m gonna talk about it, and I’m not gonna lose a thing.”
