Michaela DePrince, Trailblazing Ballerina and Humanitarian Dies at 29

Kalani Tharanga, JadeTimes Staff

D.W.G. Kalani Tharanga is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Political Blogs.

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Image Source : Ian Gavan

A Journey from War Torn Sierra Leone to Ballet Stardom

Michaela Mabinty DePrince, an acclaimed ballerina who defied the odds to achieve international fame, has tragically passed away at the age of 29. Her family confirmed the "sudden" loss on her personal Instagram page, sharing that she was an "unforgettable inspiration" to all who knew her. Born in 1995 in Sierra Leone amidst the chaos of civil war, DePrince faced immense hardships early in life. Orphaned at the age of three, she was left in an orphanage where she was ostracized due to her vitiligo, a skin condition that causes patches of skin to lose pigmentation.

Despite these challenges, her life took a transformative turn when she was adopted by an American couple at the age of four. It was in New Jersey where DePrince’s love for ballet was nurtured, and she quickly blossomed into a prodigy. She made history as the youngest principal dancer at the Dance Theatre of Harlem, performed globally, and even graced Beyoncé’s *Lemonade* visual album. Her journey from a war orphan to a world renowned ballerina captivated the hearts of many, positioning her as a trailblazer in a field that had long been resistant to diversity.

Remembered for Her Artistry and Humanitarian Efforts

Michaela DePrince’s influence extended far beyond the stage. Known for her unwavering commitment to her craft, she also dedicated her life to humanitarian causes, advocating for children affected by conflict. Her family and colleagues praised her for her grace, strength, and perseverance, recalling how she shattered barriers in the ballet world. Misty Copeland, another trailblazing ballerina, honored DePrince on social media, recognizing her as a beacon of determination who defied critics that said the world wasn’t ready for Black ballerinas.

In addition to her contributions to dance, DePrince was an ambassador for War Child, striving to bring awareness to the struggles of children in war zones. Her siblings have expressed a desire to continue her legacy, with her brother Eric DePrince emphasizing her commitment to improving the lives of others. As her sister Mia Mabinty DePrince reflected on their shared childhood, she fondly remembered how the two would create their own ballets at the orphanage, a testament to Michaela’s early passion for storytelling through movement. The loss of both Michaela and their mother Elaine in the same week has left the family heartbroken, but they hope the world will remember Michaela for her brilliance, resilience, and compassion.

Who Covers the Cost of Clothing for World Leaders and Their Spouses?

Vithanage Erandi Kawshalya Madhushani Jade Times Staff

V.E.K. Madhushani is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Fashion.

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Image Source : Ido Vock

Exploring the Financial Responsibility Behind Attire for Global Figures and Their Partners

World leaders and their spouses are often under intense scrutiny for their appearance during public engagements, which raises the question of who funds their wardrobes. The recent debate surrounding Sir Keir Starmer, leader of the UK’s Labour Party, and his wife Victoria accepting clothing donations from a Labour donor has brought this issue into the spotlight. Foreign Secretary David Lammy defended the Starmer family's actions, pointing to how some countries provide taxpayer funded budgets for leaders to "look their best" when representing their nation.

However, the issue is complex and varies significantly from country to country.

US Presidents and First Ladies

In the United States, presidents receive an annual expenses budget of $50,000, which can be used to purchase clothing, among other things. This budget is on top of their $400,000 annual salary. However, the president’s spouse, traditionally the first lady, does not receive a dedicated clothing budget despite their public role. First ladies are often expected to cover their clothing expenses themselves.

Some first ladies, such as Laura Bush and Michelle Obama, have expressed frustration over the cost of meeting public expectations for fashionable attire. Laura Bush mentioned in her memoir how their accountant once remarked to her husband, President George W. Bush, “It costs a lot to be president,” mainly due to her wardrobe needs.

Designers, recognizing the publicity that comes from dressing a first lady, sometimes offer clothing as gifts. These items can be accepted on behalf of the U.S. government, especially for public or historical events like state visits. Michelle Obama, for example, paid for most of her clothing herself but could also accept outfits for official purposes.

Image Source : Ido Vock

Clothing Practices in the UK and Europe

In the UK, former Prime Minister Gordon Brown's wife, Sarah Brown, explained that while many designers offered her free clothes, strict rules governed what MPs and their spouses could accept. She found a solution by effectively "renting" clothes for 10% of their retail value, which allowed her to comply with both ethical and legal guidelines.

In France, First Lady Brigitte Macron is known to borrow high-fashion outfits from brands like Louis Vuitton. Her wardrobe choices, while often gifts from designers, are meticulously tracked by her office to differentiate between lent and personal clothing. However, President Emmanuel Macron himself has faced criticism for lavish spending, including reserving a business class seat on a flight solely to transport two of his suits at a significant cost.

Germany’s leaders also face scrutiny over expenses related to personal grooming. In 2023, it was revealed that German ministers had spent €450,000 on hairdressers, makeup artists, and photographers in just six months, though there is no official clothing fund.

 Political and Public Reactions

The ongoing debate surrounding Sir Keir Starmer's potential breach of parliamentary rules for accepting clothing donations has prompted comparisons between global practices. While some nations provide generous budgets or make arrangements for their leaders' appearances, others rely on personal funds, donations, or loans. The controversy highlights the delicate balance between public expectations, ethics, and transparency in how world leaders manage their image.

In response to the controversy, Starmer’s office stated, “We sought advice from the authorities upon taking office and believed we had been compliant. Following further review, we have now declared additional items.” This statement underscores the complexity of the issue, as different countries and systems have varying rules for managing such situations.

Ultimately, the question of who pays for world leaders’ clothing remains a point of contention, with no universal solution in sight.

Death Toll Rises as Central Europe Faces Devastating Floods

Vithanage Erandi Kawshalya Madhushani Jade Times Staff

V.E.K. Madhushani is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Europe.

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Image Source : Laura Gozzi

Severe Flooding Claims Lives Across Czech Republic, Poland, and Austria

The death toll from the catastrophic floods that swept through central Europe over the weekend has increased, with fatalities recorded in the Czech Republic, Poland, Austria, and other affected regions.

In the Czech Republic, one person drowned in a stream near the town of Bruntal, while seven others remain missing. In Poland, four people have died, although the exact cause of death in one case is yet to be confirmed by authorities. Austria also reported two deaths in the northeastern region, where a 70 year old and an 80 year old succumbed to the floods. One victim was reportedly attempting to pump water from his apartment when he drowned.

In total, eight lives were lost over the weekend in Poland, Romania, and Austria, including a firefighter who tragically died during a rescue operation. Although some regions have seen a stabilization of conditions, others are still bracing for further disruptions as floodwaters continue to rise.

Slovakia has also been heavily impacted, with the Danube River overflowing into the Old Town area of Bratislava. Local media reported that water levels have surpassed 9 meters (30 feet) and are expected to rise even further. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has postponed international obligations to address the extreme flooding in his country.

The Czech Republic has seen the highest rainfall, particularly in the town of Jesenik, where 473mm (19 inches) of rain has fallen since Thursday, a staggering five times the area's average monthly rainfall. In Austria, the town of St. Pölten recorded more rain in four days than during the wettest autumn on record in 1950.

Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer has deployed the armed forces to assist in storm affected areas, and the Austrian Climate Ministry has pledged €300 million (£253 million) in recovery funds. Similarly, Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced a relief package of one billion zloty (£197 million) for flood victims, and Poland is seeking additional funds from the European Union.

In Romania, towns and villages have been submerged, with officials describing the devastation. Emil Dragomir, the mayor of Slobozia Conachi, shared the emotional toll of the disaster, stating, "People are desperate, their whole lives' work is gone."

Thousands have been evacuated in Poland, including patients and staff from a hospital in Nysa. The town of Paczków has also issued evacuation orders as a nearby reservoir overflowed, endangering the area. Meanwhile, in some parts of Poland, water levels have started to recede, and the worst may be over in places like Klodzko.

Video footage revealed the extent of damage in areas where floodwaters have begun to subside. However, more rain is expected throughout Monday and Tuesday in Austria, the Czech Republic, and southeastern Germany, with another 100mm of rainfall predicted.

While the floodwaters may take several days to fully recede, drier weather is expected to return to central Europe by mid-week. However, Storm Boris, which caused the heavy rainfall, is moving south toward Italy, where it is predicted to intensify and bring heavy rainfall to regions such as Emilia Romagna.

The record rainfall seen across central Europe is a result of several converging factors, including climate change. The interaction of cold Arctic air with warm Mediterranean air, coupled with atmospheric pressure patterns, caused Storm Boris to stall over the region. Scientists emphasize that a warming atmosphere holds more moisture, leading to more intense rainfall, while warmer oceans contribute to increased evaporation, fueling storm systems.

For every 1°C rise in global temperature, the atmosphere can hold 7% more moisture, which intensifies rainfall during such extreme weather events.