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