Ever since Zaya Wade confidently came out as a trans girl at just 12 years old, her story has been nothing short of inspiring. But it’s not just her individuality that has captured hearts—her parents, Dwyane Wade and Gabrielle Union, have always been by her side, advocating for acceptance and love. Recently, the trio turned heads on the red carpet of an iconic LGBTQ+ gala, and Zaya couldn’t have been more excited for herself.

The Out100 Gala, hosted annually by Out magazine, celebrates the remarkable achievements of LGBTQ+ trailblazers and their allies. This year, Zaya found herself on their prestigious list, an honor reserved for those making waves in activism, media, and beyond. And as she stood in the spotlight at the star-studded event, Zaya wasn’t alone—Gabrielle and Dwyane were right there, beaming with pride.

Zaya, of course, couldn’t contain her excitement. “These are icons in, like, queer media, queer history—like everything,” she shared. “I’m, like, freaking out. This is like my celebrity freak out. So I’m dying. But also, I’m just so honored to be honored.” Her candid joy, mixed with disbelief, was a reminder of how far she’s come. “How can I even explain it? It’s just like so much happiness and love for the community.”

The event saw the presence of Sheryl Lee Ralph, Sam Champion, Cynthia Erivo, and Orville Peck among others. While Lee Ralph was honored with Advocate of the Year award, Erivo went home at the Icon of the Year.  17-years-old Zaya, treading the way to make an impact of her own, wasn’t a surprise addition.

She, alongside D-Wade launched Transtable, an online community and safe space for LGBTQ+ youth of color to express themselves, in May this year. The project had received a $250,000 funding at The Elevate Prize Foundation’s Make Good Famous Summit, after Dwyane was honored with Elevate Prize Catalyst Award.

She now has aims of taking it places the coming year. “I’m manifesting so much progress for translatable. That’s what I want, that’s what I need,” she said. But being the high school senior she is, the 17-year-old is also hoping to get into “a good college” — as a personal goal. She has even visited a few colleges with her parents. But for now, she’s excited to be among the difference makers.

More than just another event for the Wade family

Zaya showed up in a Ronny Kobo Lena Jacket Dress with bold leopard print faux fur accentand added a flair with patent-leather Mary Jane heels. Meanwhile, Gab represented Burberry in a classic checkered mini-dress, studded leather pumps, and a chic handbag. And Dwyane Wade kept it cool and casual in a sleek denim jacket and pants by Loro Piana.

But this was more than just another event for the Wade family. “Sports is something you can expect an award from. But this one right here is not one of those things that I would expect to get an award for. I’m just a parent doing what a good parent should do,” The Flash had said after being recognized for his advocacy for the transgender community in May.

Both Gab and Dwyane have ensured complete support for Zaya ever since she came out at 12 years old, even leaving Florida reportedly because of the anti-lgbtq+ legislations. Now watching her among the biggest of advocates, it is nothing short of a heartwarming moment for the Wade parents.