Building a Safe Space for Queer Youth
Wade created the Translatable Project alongside her father, NBA legend and activist Dwyane Wade, after recognizing a gap in resources and community for young people navigating queer identity. "She wished she had community, she wished she had a safe space, a safe haven," Dwyane Wade explained of his daughter's vision. "That right there started the birth of Translatable." The event itself reflected that mission: a space designed specifically for queer youth and their families to explore identity, expression, and belonging together. Gabrielle Union, Zaya's stepmother and an actor, emphasized the importance of allyship grounded in humility. "Listen. You don't have all the answers, your life isn't their life, and it's okay to learn from your kids," she shared with attendees. "It's okay to learn from your loved ones, and humble yourself, that there's more to learn, and there's more love to give."Celebrating Ballroom and Community Connection
The Translatable Ball centered ballroom culture as a vehicle for joy and cultural expression. Zaya credited Calypso Jete, winner of Season 1 of HBO's Legendary, with introducing her to ballroom traditions and co-hosting the event. "She really introduced us to the ball culture, really helped us understand, so that we could really connect with our community," Zaya said. Through that partnership, the evening brought together seasoned ballroom artists and young people discovering the scene for the first time, creating a bridge between established queer culture and the next generation. The 2nd Annual Translatable Ball stood as a visible affirmation during Pride Month: that trans and queer youth deserve spaces designed with their safety and joy in mind, and that family and community support makes that possible.Source: Queerty
Cover photo: Danzon Cultural Heritage / Pexels
