Michaela DePrince: A Life of Triumph, Talent, and Tragedy Michaela DePrince’s life was a story of remarkable resilience, a triumph over adversity that captured the hearts of many. Born amidst the brutal violence of Sierra Leone’s civil war and orphaned as a young child, DePrince rose to become one of the most inspiring figures in the world of ballet. Her journey from war-torn Africa to the world’s most prestigious stages was one of hope, perseverance, and unparalleled talent. However, the news of her untimely passing has left the world of dance and her admirers in shock. At only 29 years old, Michaela DePrince’s light was extinguished too soon, leaving behind a legacy of artistry and courage. This biography explores the extraordinary life of Michaela DePrince—from her early struggles, to her stellar rise in the world of ballet, to her untimely death, and the legacy she leaves behind.
Early Life in Sierra Leone: Born Amidst Conflict Michaela DePrince was born on January 6, 1995, in Sierra Leone as Mabinty Bangura. Her early years were marked by the violent backdrop of the Sierra Leone Civil War (1991–2002), which claimed the lives of many, including DePrince's parents. Her father was killed by rebels, and her mother succumbed to starvation shortly after. Michaela was left orphaned and placed in an orphanage, a traumatic experience made worse by the superstition surrounding her appearance. Michaela was born with vitiligo, a condition that causes patches of skin to lose pigment. Because of this, she was cruelly labeled a “devil’s child” by her caretakers. She was ranked last in the orphanage hierarchy, often referred to as "Number 27," the least favored child, which only deepened her sense of isolation and neglect. But even in the face of such harsh treatment, Michaela’s spirit remained unbroken. It was in this orphanage that Michaela found her first dream. One day, she stumbled upon a tattered magazine cover featuring a ballet dancer en pointe. The image of the poised, graceful ballerina left an indelible mark on her young heart. Despite her dire circumstances, Michaela dared to dream of becoming a ballerina, a dream that would guide her out of darkness and into a world of possibility.
From Orphan to Adopted Daughter: A New Life in America In 1999, at the age of four, Michaela’s life changed forever when she was adopted by Elaine and Charles DePrince, an American couple who had previously adopted another girl from Sierra Leone, Mia. The DePrinces, known for their commitment to international adoption, brought Michaela and Mia to the United States, where they became part of a loving and supportive family. It was in her new home in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, that Michaela’s passion for ballet blossomed. Her adoptive mother, Elaine, recognized her daughter’s fascination with ballet and enrolled her in dance lessons at The Rock School for Dance Education in Philadelphia. However, Michaela faced new challenges in the form of racism and prejudice. She was often told that she would never become a professional ballerina because of the color of her skin, and because her body did not conform to the traditional “ballet look.” But Michaela was undeterred. Her talent and determination caught the attention of her instructors, and she quickly progressed through her training. By the age of 13, Michaela had already appeared in the documentary First Position, which followed six young dancers as they prepared for the Youth America Grand Prix, the world’s largest student ballet competition. Her appearance in the documentary introduced her to a global audience, and it became clear that Michaela was destined for greatness.
Breaking Barriers: Michaela DePrince's Rise in Ballet Despite the naysayers, Michaela DePrince broke down barriers in the world of ballet, a field historically dominated by white dancers. She was a fierce advocate for diversity in ballet and openly spoke about her experiences with racism in the dance world. Her determination to succeed inspired a new generation of young dancers who saw in Michaela someone who had overcome great odds to pursue her dreams. In 2012, Michaela joined the Dance Theatre of Harlem as the youngest member of the company. She continued to dazzle audiences with her performances, and her career took a significant leap forward when she joined the prestigious Dutch National Ballet as a second soloist in 2013. By 2016, she was promoted to soloist, and in 2017, she earned the rank of grand sujet, one of the highest positions in the ballet company. Michaela performed in numerous ballets with the Dutch National Ballet, including iconic roles such as the Sugar Plum Fairy in The Nutcracker, Odile in Swan Lake, and roles in modern works choreographed by some of the most esteemed names in ballet. She earned critical acclaim for her technical skill, emotional depth, and stage presence, captivating audiences worldwide.
Advocacy and Global Impact In addition to her extraordinary career as a ballerina, Michaela DePrince became a powerful voice for change in the ballet world and beyond. She actively worked to raise awareness about the need for diversity in the arts and to dismantle the systemic racism that has long plagued ballet. Michaela frequently participated in speaking engagements, interviews, and panel discussions where she discussed her journey as a Black ballerina and the challenges she had overcome. In 2016, Michaela released her memoir, Taking Flight: From War Orphan to Star Ballerina, co-written with her adoptive mother, Elaine DePrince. The book became a bestseller and was praised for its candid account of her life’s trials and triumphs. It became a source of inspiration for young dancers worldwide, especially those who, like Michaela, were marginalized due to their race or background. Michaela was also a UNICEF ambassador, using her platform to advocate for children’s rights and education, particularly in conflict zones like Sierra Leone. Her humanitarian work made her a role model not only for aspiring dancers but also for those who admired her resilience and her commitment to making the world a better place.
Tragic End: Michaela DePrince's Untimely Death In September 2024, the world was shocked by the news of Michaela DePrince’s untimely death. At just 29 years old, her sudden passing sent waves of grief through the dance community and beyond. While the details of her passing remain private at the request of her family, tributes from friends, colleagues, and fans have poured in from all corners of the globe, mourning the loss of a true icon. Michaela DePrince’s passing is a devastating blow not only to the world of ballet but also to those who admired her tenacity, courage, and dedication to her craft. Her loss is deeply felt by her family, including her adoptive mother Elaine, and her many fans who followed her journey from war orphan to star ballerina. Her death leaves behind a legacy that will inspire generations of dancers, artists, and advocates for change. Michaela’s story of rising from unimaginable hardship to international stardom is a testament to the power of perseverance and hope. In her short life, she shattered glass ceilings, challenged norms, and proved that no obstacle was too great to overcome.
The Legacy of Michaela DePrince Michaela DePrince’s impact on the world of ballet, her advocacy for diversity, and her humanitarian work will live on long after her passing. She leaves behind a legacy of artistic excellence and social change that transcends the world of dance. Through her performances, her memoir, and her public speaking, Michaela inspired millions and will continue to do so. In a world that often values conformity, Michaela DePrince stood as a beacon of individuality and perseverance. Her courage to pursue her dreams, despite the countless obstacles in her way, will continue to resonate with those who dare to defy the odds. Michaela DePrince’s story is one of hope—a reminder that no matter where you come from or what challenges you face, you can achieve greatness. Her life was a testament to the transformative power of art, resilience, and love. As the dance world mourns her passing, her spirit will forever be remembered through the steps she took on the stage and the steps she encouraged others to take in their own lives. Rest in peace, Michaela DePrince. Your light will continue to shine in the hearts of those you’ve touched. Thanks for listening and remember to like and share wherever you get your podcasts.