Michaela Mabinty DePrince A Ballerina’s Inspiring Journey from War-Torn Sierra Leone to Global Fame
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Ballerina Michaela DePrince teaches a ballet class at One World Observatory in New York City on April 26, 2017. |
Michaela Mabinty DePrince, a world-renowned ballerina who rose from the devastating civil war in Sierra Leone to perform in Beyoncé’s Lemonade visual album, has passed away at the age of 29. The news of her death was shared in a heartfelt announcement on her official Instagram page.
A Life Defined by Strength, Grace, and Purpose
In the announcement, her family paid tribute to DePrince's life, stating, “Her life was one defined by grace, purpose, and strength. Her unwavering commitment to her art, her humanitarian efforts, and her courage in overcoming unimaginable challenges will forever inspire us.” Her sister, Mia, expressed shock and deep sadness over Michaela’s passing, reflecting the emotional weight of this loss for those who knew and loved her.
Making History in Ballet
Michaela DePrince made history as the youngest principal dancer at the prestigious Dance Theatre of Harlem. Her extraordinary talent also led her to perform with the Dutch National Ballet and the Boston Ballet, where she served as a second soloist. DePrince’s remarkable skills brought her into the spotlight when she appeared in a cameo in Beyoncé’s Lemonade visual album, a role she initially thought was a joke. Beyoncé herself told DePrince it was an "honor" to have her featured.
Overcoming a Childhood of War and Hardship
Born during the brutal civil war in Sierra Leone, Michaela DePrince faced unimaginable challenges early in life. Both of her parents died during the war—her father was killed by rebels, and her mother succumbed to starvation. She was sent to an orphanage where she endured severe mistreatment due to her vitiligo, a skin condition that causes patches of lighter skin. Orphanage caregivers called her “the devil’s child,” and she survived traumatic events, including witnessing her teacher being murdered by rebels and being stabbed while trying to protect herself.
Despite these horrors, DePrince found a glimmer of hope at just three years old when she saw a ballerina on the cover of a magazine. “I was so fascinated by how beautiful she was, how she was wearing such a beautiful costume,” DePrince recalled. Although she didn’t know what ballet was at the time, she held onto that image and dreamed of becoming like the dancer she saw.
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Michaela DePrince performs 'Giselle' with the English National ballet at the Coliseum in London, England on January 13, 2017. |
A New Life and the Pursuit of Ballet
Michaela’s life took a dramatic turn when she was adopted by a couple from New Jersey, who supported her passion for ballet. They enrolled her in dance classes, giving her the opportunity to pursue her dream. Alongside her adoptive sister, Mia, who was also adopted from Sierra Leone, Michaela thrived in her new environment.
At the age of 13, DePrince earned a full scholarship to the American Ballet Theater’s summer intensive and later won a scholarship at the prestigious Youth America Grand Prix, the world’s largest ballet competition.
Battling Racism in the World of Ballet
Despite her success, DePrince’s journey in the ballet world was not without obstacles. As a Black dancer in a predominantly white industry, she faced racism from a young age. At just 10 years old, a teacher told her that Black ballerinas weren’t worth investing in, nearly causing her to quit. However, Michaela refused to give up. “I’m still trying to change the way people see Black dancers,” she told CNN, expressing her desire to show that Black dancers can embody the same grace and beauty traditionally associated with ballet.
A Lasting Legacy of Advocacy and Inspiration
Michaela DePrince’s impact extended beyond ballet. In 2014, she co-authored the memoir Taking Flight: From War Orphan to Star Ballerina with her adoptive mother, sharing her powerful story of resilience and hope. Additionally, she became an ambassador for War Child Holland, a humanitarian organization focused on promoting the well-being and mental health of children in war zones. Her family emphasized how important this work was to her, asking that donations be made to War Child Holland in her memory.
Fellow ballerina Misty Copeland paid tribute to DePrince, acknowledging her influence and the challenges she overcame: “Despite being told the ‘world wasn’t ready for Black ballerinas,’ she remained determined, focused, and began making big strides. Michaela had so much more to give.”
Honoring Michaela DePrince’s Legacy
Michaela Mabinty DePrince’s life is a testament to perseverance, strength, and the power of following your dreams against all odds. From her tragic beginnings in Sierra Leone to performing on some of the world’s most prestigious stages, she inspired millions with her story of resilience and hope. As the world mourns her loss, her legacy will continue to shine brightly, offering inspiration to the next generation of dancers and dreamers alike.
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