Zaya: A Journey Of Identity, Innovation, And Inspiration
At Zaya 1943 Korean Steakhouse, we invite you to experience a dining adventure like no other. This isn't just another restaurant; it's a carefully curated experience that blends culinary excellence with cultural authenticity. Whether you're joining us for a leisurely lunch, an elegant dinner, or a nightcap with friends, our restaurant offers an immersive journey through Korean gastronomy that honors both tradition and innovation.
The story of Zaya extends far beyond the restaurant walls. At only 17, Zaya Wade has already made a huge impression on the world. The model and influencer came out as transgender in 2020, and, along with dad Dwyane Wade and stepmom Gabrielle Union, has become a powerful voice for LGBTQ+ youth everywhere. Their family's unwavering support has created a blueprint for how families can embrace and celebrate their transgender children with love, understanding, and advocacy.
The Zaya Philosophy: Rooted in Earth, Connected to Stars
Rooted in the earth yet connected to the stars, Zaya invests in the enrichment and development of people through education, luxury homes, retreats, and hospitality projects. Every initiative is guided by a singular vision: to create spaces and experiences that elevate the human spirit. This holistic approach recognizes that true luxury isn't just about material comfort—it's about creating environments where people can grow, connect, and thrive.
Zaya is about interactions not transactions. This fundamental principle shapes everything from the intimate dining experiences at the steakhouse to the carefully designed luxury retreats. The company understands that meaningful connections create lasting value, whether it's between a chef and diner, a host and guest, or a mentor and student.
Creating Memorable Experiences
Dinner and a show and a room that remembers your name—this is the Zaya promise. We keep it small so it feels like yours. This intimate approach extends across all Zaya ventures, from the 1943 Korean Steakhouse to luxury hospitality projects. By maintaining manageable scale, Zaya ensures that every guest receives personalized attention and creates genuine connections with the space and the people who bring it to life.
While the proud dad often takes the spotlight when sharing family updates, Zaya has made clear just how much his support has shaped her journey. Speaking with Harper's Bazaar for the magazine's cover story, Zaya Wade shared insights about her transition, her advocacy work, and how her family's love has empowered her to be her authentic self. Her story resonates with countless young people navigating their own identity journeys, proving that visibility and authenticity can change lives.
Cultural Impact and Representation
Heartstopper, starring Zaya's fellow Gen Zer Kit Connor, is a Netflix series that follows the lives of a group of British teens as they navigate love, friendship, and identity. I love that connection between y'all—this sentiment captures the essence of what makes shows like Heartstopper and young activists like Zaya Wade so powerful. They create representation that helps young people see themselves reflected in media and understand they're not alone in their experiences.
The intersection of Zaya Wade's advocacy work and the broader cultural moment for LGBTQ+ representation creates a powerful narrative about progress and possibility. As a young Black transgender woman, Zaya represents multiple facets of identity that have historically been marginalized, yet she stands confidently at the intersection of these identities, using her platform to educate and inspire.
The Future of Zaya
Looking ahead, Zaya continues to expand its vision across multiple sectors. The hospitality arm is developing new luxury retreats that combine sustainable design with wellness programming. Educational initiatives are being launched to support LGBTQ+ youth and their families. The 1943 Korean Steakhouse is refining its culinary offerings while maintaining the intimate, personalized experience that defines the brand.
What makes Zaya truly unique is its commitment to creating ecosystems of support and enrichment. Whether someone is dining at the steakhouse, staying at a luxury retreat, or following Zaya Wade's advocacy journey, they're participating in a larger vision of human connection and growth. This integrated approach recognizes that personal development happens across multiple dimensions—culinary, cultural, educational, and spiritual.
Conclusion
The story of Zaya—in all its manifestations—is ultimately about transformation and connection. From a Korean steakhouse that honors culinary tradition while creating intimate dining experiences, to a young activist reshaping cultural conversations about gender and identity, to a hospitality brand building spaces for personal growth, Zaya represents a new paradigm of what it means to create meaningful impact.
As we look to the future, the Zaya philosophy offers valuable lessons about the power of authenticity, the importance of community, and the potential for businesses and individuals to create positive change. Whether you're savoring a meal at 1943 Korean Steakhouse, following Zaya Wade's inspiring journey, or planning a stay at a Zaya retreat, you're participating in a movement that values human connection above all else. In a world that often feels increasingly disconnected, Zaya reminds us of the transformative power of genuine interaction, authentic self-expression, and the courage to be exactly who we are.
