Equatorial Guinean Mom Captivates Crowd at Lavish Celebration for Barcelona Star

On November 10, 2025, Sheila Ebana, the mother of 18-year-old Barcelona and Spain forward Lamine Yamal, was the special guest at a Christmas gala organized by a wedding and events planning company in London. The event, held at the Leonardo Royal Hotel near Tower Bridge, featured a range of entertainment, including dancers, a singer, and a trumpeter.

Tickets for the gala cost up to £313.82 ($411) and included Champagne on arrival, a three-course meal, a photo opportunity, an allocated seat on a 'VIP table,' and unlimited drinks. Ebana, who is from Equatorial Guinea, emerged in a black dress with colorful ruffles, looking slightly taken aback by the attention. Despite not speaking English, she was introduced to the crowd and interacted with guests throughout the evening.

Yamal, who has risen to global stardom in the past two-and-a-half years, has spoken highly of his mother's role in his success. Ebana took a job at a fast-food restaurant to support Yamal when he was younger, before he eventually joined Barcelona's famed La Masia academy at the age of 12. The event organizers said Ebana's "main intention and interest in attending was simply the opportunity to enjoy the JEN C Events Christmas Gala."