After years of dedication on the court, Ray Parks Jr. has found a love that transcended the game—a love that brought not just companionship but a bonus family with his girlfriend, content creator Zeinab Harake.
Growing up with separated parents, Ray Parks Jr. faced the daunting challenge of navigating life’s uncertainties and emotional solitude.
Meanwhile, YouTube content creator Zeinab Harake embarked on a journey of self-healing and discovery after coming out of a toxic relationship, less than a year after giving birth.
Together, Ray and Zeinab redefined the meaning of “love” as they found one another.
In their guest appearance on TV host’ Toni Gonzaga’s YouTube channel “Toni Talks," the online couple shared how their paths have crossed.
In February 2023, Ray and Zeinab met through a common friend. While they only had a minor interaction in the span of a week because Parks had to go back to Japan for the Japan B-League with the Nagoya Diamond Dolphins (cue Imelda Papin’s Isang Linggong Pag-ibig, kidding!), there is already an undeniable spark between the two.
“Pinakilala kami [ng common friend]. Pero kasi, no’ng time na ‘yon na pinakilala kami [sa isa’t isa], pabalik kasi siya ng Japan. February 25 kami nagkakilala, pabalik siya, March 2. So gano’n lang kabilis, 1 week lang. Parang Isang Linggong Pag-ibig,” Zeinab said to Toni with a laugh.
At first, she was hesitant due to past experiences, but Ray’s unwavering sincerity and effort motivated Zeinab to trust again.
“Hindi ko sineseryoso no’ng una, Ate Tin. Kasi ay paalis ‘yan [Ray], basketball player ‘yan. Parang feeling ko, oh my God, madali na naman ako ng manloloko,” she shared.
“For me, pumasok ako sa relasyon namin na, not asking for anything, but going in with what I can give—peace of mind, genuine support career-wise, and tulong talaga in all aspects,” Ray said with sincerity.
And while entering a relationship with a girl who already has children was not easy, Ray’s genuine love for children and his dream of building a family filled his journey with Zeinab with hope and boundless love.
“Sobrang thankful po kasi bata pa lang po ako gusto ko na po talagang magkaroon ng family. Eh hindi po biniyayan ni Lord, iba ‘yong plans ni God since sovereign Siya, ito, instant family,” Ray told when asked about his reaction after finding Zeinab has kids.
Now, Zeinab and Ray’s relationship shines brightly. Together, they've forged a path of happiness and love that lights up their lives with newfound warmth and meaning.
Watch the full vlog here: