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!