In an intimate and heartfelt Vogue video interview, Natalia Bryant, the eldest daughter of the late NBA legend Kobe Bryant, opened up about the profound personal meaning behind two cherished necklaces she wears to honor her father’s memory. These pieces of jewelry, steeped in emotional significance, serve as tangible connections to her father, whose life and legacy continue to inspire her every day.
The first necklace, a delicate piece engraved with the word "Slim," holds a particularly special place in Natalia’s heart. She explained that "Slim" was the affectionate nickname her father bestowed upon her during her childhood, a playful nod to her petite stature at the time. “It’s a name that’s so tied to my dad and those early memories,” Natalia shared, her voice tinged with nostalgia. The nickname evokes cherished moments from her youth, when Kobe’s larger-than-life presence as a basketball icon was balanced by his role as a devoted father who delighted in creating personal, lighthearted connections with his daughters. Wearing the "Slim" necklace allows Natalia to carry a piece of those tender father-daughter moments with her, serving as a constant reminder of his love and the joy they shared.
The second necklace, a striking gold medallion, is a tribute to the Mamba and Mambacita Sports Foundation, an organization founded in honor of Kobe and his daughter Gianna, who tragically passed away alongside him in January 2020. The foundation, dedicated to empowering underserved athletes, reflects Kobe’s lifelong commitment to fostering opportunity and excellence in sports. The medallion is engraved with one of Kobe’s most iconic quotes: “Dedication makes dreams come true.” For Natalia, this quote is more than just words—it’s a guiding principle that shapes her approach to life. “It’s something I try to live by every day,” she said, explaining how her father’s emphasis on hard work and perseverance continues to motivate her in her personal and professional endeavors.
Reflecting on her father, Natalia spoke candidly about the healing power of sharing memories of him. “Talking about him, keeping his memory alive, it’s something that feels good,” she said, her words underscoring the therapeutic role that storytelling plays in her grieving process. She recalled specific moments with Kobe—small, everyday interactions that, in hindsight, carry immense weight. Whether it was his playful teasing about her height or his encouragement as she navigated her teenage years, these memories remain vivid and grounding for Natalia. By wearing these necklaces, she keeps her father’s spirit close, transforming her grief into a celebration of his enduring influence.
Natalia also touched on her journey into adulthood and her burgeoning career in modeling, which she pursued after graduating high school. Now 22, she has made significant strides in the fashion industry, working with prestigious brands and carving out her own identity. Yet, she credits her parents—Kobe and her mother, Vanessa Bryant—for instilling in her a sense of humility and balance. “They always made sure I stayed grounded,” she said, noting how their guidance has helped her navigate the challenges of public life while staying true to herself. This grounding influence is especially meaningful as she steps into the spotlight, balancing her personal aspirations with the weight of her father’s legacy.
The Vogue interview offered a rare glimpse into Natalia’s inner world, revealing a young woman who is both honoring her past and forging her own path forward. The necklaces she wears are more than accessories—they are symbols of love, resilience, and purpose. Through the "Slim" necklace, she carries the warmth of her father’s affection; through the Mamba and Mambacita medallion, she upholds his mission to uplift others. Together, these pieces encapsulate the duality of Natalia’s journey: a deeply personal connection to her father and a commitment to extending his legacy of impact and inspiration.
As Natalia continues to grow in her career and personal life, she remains anchored by the values her father instilled in her—dedication, humility, and an unwavering belief in the power of dreams. By sharing these stories, she not only keeps Kobe’s memory alive but also inspires others to find strength in their own connections to loved ones, proving that even in loss, love endures.
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