Last updated on: August 12, 2025
Mariama Diaby is the mother of NFL linebacker Yaya Diaby, who plays for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. She is also the wife of Mohamed Diaby and the mother of Yalani Diaby, Yaya’s younger brother. Mariama and her husband are originally from Guinea, a country in West Africa.
Mariama is beyond being a proud parent. She was also one of the biggest figures in Yaya’s life. She taught him by her values, guidance, and care to become a professional footballer from a young athlete.
Quick Facts About Mariama Diaby
| Full Name | Mariama Diaby |
| Birthdate | 1975 |
| Occupation | N/A |
| Husband/Wife | Mohamed Diaby |
| Education | N/A |
| Age | 51 years old |
| Parents | Not Known |
| Siblings | Not Known |
| Children | Sons: Yaya Diaby, Yalani Diaby |
| Net Worth | <$1 million |
Early Life and Background
Information regarding Mariama’s childhood is personal. Nevertheless, her Guinean heritage has influenced her values. In the culture of Guinea, family is deeply valued. Respect for the elderly, diligence, and cohesion are fundamental convictions. Mariama took these customs with her into her own home in the United States.
Family and Home Life
Mariama is married to Mohamed Diaby. They have two sons, Yaya and Yalani Diaby. The Diaby household has always been warm and disciplinary. Mariama ensures her children are taught the importance of education and hard work.
Even in difficult times, she stood firm for her family. She motivated her children to aspire high but remain humble.
Role in Yaya’s Career
Yaya was born on May 30, 1999, in Atlanta, Georgia. He did not have an easy route to making it to the NFL. He had a hard time with his schoolwork and preparation in high school. Mariama recognized his talent but also realized he needed to concentrate.
She left him with words of wisdom that he never forgot: “Go all in and don’t look back.” Yaya took the saying to heart. It became a mantra for how he lived his life and played football.
Her words of encouragement never wavered. She supported him on the sidelines. She boosted his confidence when he lost it. She told him not to let any moment go to waste.
Values She Taught
Mariama instilled in her sons life lessons that formed their character:
Perseverance – Keep trying even when things get tough.
Commitment – Commit yourself fully to your ambitions.
Humility – Remain humble no matter how wealthy you get.
Gratitude – Value every opportunity you receive.
These lessons instilled Yaya with the self-discipline he required to excel in sports.
Her Impact on Yaya’s Work Ethic
Yaya frequently credits his mother as his source of work ethic. She is a hard worker in her own life, and she sets an example for Yaya’s siblings. She demonstrated for him that success is based on work, not chance.
Her faith in him inspired Yaya to go high. It inspired him to remain tough against physical adversity and stiff competition.
Private but Supportive
Although her son is in the limelight, Mariama leads a secluded life. She rarely features in the news. Everything that people know about her comes from Yaya’s reports and interviews.
While she keeps away from the limelight, she never loses being a pillar of strength to her family. Her encouragement is one that does not speak but is very effective.
READ ALSO: Yaya Diaby Net worth, Age, Girlfriend, Family, Facts & More
Legacy as a Mother
Mariama’s greatest legacy is her children. Yaya’s NFL success is a testament to her influence. She nurtured him with patience, love, and expectations. Her life illustrates how a mother’s faith can be used to mold a champion.
She is evidence that behind every successful athlete is a parent who did just as much to make their dreams a reality.
