New York City — Michaela DePrince, the renowned ballerina whose remarkable life story transcended unimaginable adversity, has passed away at the age of 29. The news was confirmed through an announcement on her official Instagram page, where her family described her as a figure of grace, purpose, and strength.
The post read, “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. She stood as a beacon of hope for many, showing that no matter the obstacles, beauty and greatness can rise from the darkest of places.”
No cause of death has been disclosed, but the news has left many in shock and deep sadness, including her sister Mia, who expressed her grief over the loss.
A Life of Triumph and Inspiration
Born Mabinty Bangura during Sierra Leone’s brutal civil war, DePrince’s early years were marked by tragedy. After losing her parents — her father killed by rebels and her mother succumbing to starvation — she was sent to an orphanage where she faced harsh treatment due to her vitiligo, a condition that causes skin discoloration. Despite these challenges, she found solace in a magazine cover featuring a ballerina, which sparked her dream of becoming a dancer.
Adopted by a New Jersey couple, DePrince’s new life in the United States began with ballet classes that nurtured her burgeoning talent. She rose to prominence as the youngest principal dancer at the Dance Theatre of Harlem and performed with the Dutch National Ballet and the Boston Ballet, where she was a second soloist.
Her talent gained wider recognition with her appearance in Beyoncé’s visual album ‘Lemonade’. DePrince recalled her excitement and disbelief when Beyoncé invited her to be part of the project, describing it as a profound honor.
Overcoming Barriers
DePrince’s journey was not without obstacles. As a Black dancer in a predominantly white field, she faced prejudice and almost quit ballet at age 10 when a teacher expressed reluctance to invest in Black dancers. Despite these barriers, her resilience shone through, and she became a trailblazer, challenging stereotypes and advocating for greater inclusivity in ballet.
In 2014, she co-authored a memoir, ‘Taking Flight: From War Orphan to Star Ballerina’, detailing her extraordinary journey. She also dedicated her efforts to humanitarian causes, serving as an ambassador for War Child Holland, where she promoted the well-being and mental health of children in conflict zones.
Tributes and Legacy
The ballet community has mourned the loss of DePrince, with tributes highlighting her impact and legacy. Misty Copeland, another prominent ballerina, praised DePrince for her contributions, writing on social media, “Michaela had so much more to give.”
Her family has requested that donations be made to War Child Holland in her memory, reflecting the profound significance of her humanitarian work.
Michaela DePrince’s story remains an enduring testament to overcoming adversity and achieving greatness. Her legacy will continue to inspire future generations, showcasing the strength and beauty that can emerge from even the darkest of beginnings.