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Vanessa and Kobe Bryant ’s daughter Natalia Bryant is officially a high school graduate. The 18-year-old model on the rise walked across the stage and accepted her diploma on Friday, June 4 as her family cheered her on. Mom Vanessa touted several photos and videos of her girl on social media, saying how proud they all are of her. One Instagram post featured a closeup of Natalia’s graduation cap decor. The glittering cap was bedazzled with the colors and logos of her next school: University of Southern California. It also featured a moving homage to her late and legendary father Kobe.
A famous quote from her dad was painted along the edges of the cap, reading: “Everything negative - pressure, challenges - is all an opportunity for me to rise.” It was a meaningful message for the graduate after her challenging year and a half. Her father Kobe and sister Gianna, 13, tragically died in a helicopter accident in January of 2020 alongside seven others.
Despite all of their trials, Vanesa and loved ones made this a special day for Natalia and ensured she knew everyone was with her. Alongside a video of the student making her walk of passage, Vanessa wrote: “Congratulations Natalia! We will ALL be with you every step of the way.”
Afterward, the family seemed to gather for a lovely graduation dinner party. The celebration had a waterfront view, lots of balloons and celebrity friends like “auntie” Ciara .
See all of the photos and videos from Natalia’s special day here:
Her graduation walk:
Proud mom:
Officially a high school grad:
Grad pod:
Little cheerleaders:
After party:
Congratulations, Natalia!