Michaela Mabinty DePrince, a talented Sierra Leonean ballerina, passed away at the young age of 29. Known for her remarkable journey from war orphan to internationally celebrated dancer, DePrince touched countless lives with her story and talent. Her family announced the tragic news on her Instagram page, which was followed by a heartfelt statement shared on Facebook.
In the statement, her family expressed their grief over losing such an inspirational figure. They emphasized how her spirit, grace, and dedication to her craft left an unforgettable legacy in the world of ballet and beyond. They praised her for her resilience, strength, and humanitarian efforts, noting that her life serves as a beacon of hope for many who face hardships.
Born Mabinty Bangura in Kenema, Sierra Leone, on January 6, 1995, Michaela faced significant challenges from a young age. Her father was killed during the civil war in Sierra Leone, and her mother soon died from starvation. Michaela, at just three years old, was sent to an orphanage by her uncle. While there, she endured discrimination due to her vitiligo, a skin condition that causes patches of skin to lose pigment. This, combined with the hardships of the war, made her early life incredibly difficult.
Despite these adversities, Michaela found hope and a new life when she was adopted in 1999 by Elaine and Charles DePrince, a couple from New Jersey. The DePrinces provided her with the love and support she needed, enrolling her in ballet classes at a young age. Michaela fell in love with ballet and worked tirelessly to hone her skills. Her dedication paid off when, at the age of 14, she received a scholarship to attend the prestigious Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School of Ballet in New York City.
Michaela’s rise to fame began in 2011 when she starred in the documentary "First Position," which follows six young dancers as they prepare for ballet competitions. Her story resonated with audiences worldwide, as it showcased not only her talent but also her determination to overcome significant challenges. Soon after, Michaela became the youngest principal dancer at the Dance Theatre of Harlem, an achievement that marked the beginning of her illustrious career.
Her career took her across the globe, where she performed with some of the most esteemed ballet companies, including the Dutch National Ballet and Boston Ballet. Michaela’s impact extended far beyond the stage. She became a well-known motivational speaker, sharing her story of resilience, perseverance, and triumph in the face of adversity. She also authored two books, Taking Flight: From War Orphan to Star Ballerina and Ballet Dreams, which inspired countless readers worldwide.
Michaela was not only a talented ballerina but also a passionate humanitarian. She worked tirelessly to raise awareness for children affected by war, conflict, and violence. As an ambassador for War Child Holland, Michaela dedicated her time and energy to helping children living in war zones. She hosted her own gala, "Dare to Dream," which aimed to promote the well-being and mental health of these children.
In addition to her humanitarian work, Michaela made waves in popular culture. She appeared in Beyonce's "Lemonade" music video album and was featured in Dancing with the Stars. These appearances further cemented her status as a global icon and introduced her to new audiences.
Her impact on the ballet world and beyond did not go unnoticed. Many prominent figures in the ballet community, including renowned ballerina Misty Copeland, paid tribute to Michaela following her passing. Copeland shared a video of Michaela dancing, accompanied by an excerpt from her book Black Ballerinas, where she highlighted Michaela’s determination to succeed despite being told that the world wasn’t ready for Black ballerinas.
Michaela’s passing has left a deep void in the ballet and humanitarian communities. She was a shining example of how perseverance and passion can lead to greatness, even in the face of unimaginable hardship. Her family expressed their sadness over her sudden loss, stating, “It is with profound sadness we announce the sudden passing of our beautiful sister, Michaela Mabinty DePrince. Michaela touched so many lives across the world, including ours. She was an unforgettable inspiration to everyone who knew her or heard her story.”
Though no cause of death was provided, Michaela's family and the broader community will forever cherish her memory. Michaela's life, while short, was filled with extraordinary accomplishments, inspiring millions through her art, advocacy, and powerful story. Her legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of those she inspired, both within the ballet world and far beyond.