Michaela Mabinty DePrince, a pioneering Sierra Leonean-American ballerina celebrated for her remarkable journey from war orphan to international dance star, passed away suddenly at the age of 29.
Her death was announced via her official Instagram account and confirmed by her family, though the cause remains undisclosed.
From Orphanage to Center Stage
Born Mabinty Bangura in Kenema, Sierra Leone, in 1995, DePrince lost both parents during the country’s civil war. She was placed in an orphanage where she faced discrimination due to vitiligo, a skin condition causing depigmentation.
At age four, she was adopted by Elaine and Charles DePrince of New Jersey. Inspired by a magazine photo of a ballerina, she pursued ballet, eventually studying at the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School at American Ballet Theatre.
A Rising Star in Ballet
DePrince gained prominence through the 2011 documentary First Position, which showcased her talent and determination. She became the youngest dancer at the Dance Theatre of Harlem and later joined the Dutch National Ballet, rising to soloist. In 2021, she joined the Boston Ballet as a second soloist.
Advocate and Inspiration
Beyond the stage, DePrince co-authored the memoir Taking Flight: From War Orphan to Star Ballerina with her adoptive mother, Elaine. She served as a goodwill ambassador for War Child Netherlands, advocating for children affected by conflict.
A Double Tragedy
Tragically, DePrince’s adoptive mother, Elaine, died just one day after Michaela, on September 11, 2024, during a routine medical procedure. The family described the consecutive losses as “truly unimaginably painful.”
Legacy and Tributes
DePrince’s death prompted an outpouring of tributes from the dance community. Misty Copeland, a fellow trailblazing ballerina, honored her as a “bright light” whose legacy will continue to inspire. Precious Adams of the English National Ballet recalled discovering DePrince on YouTube, stating she “paved the way” for Black ballerinas.
Michaela DePrince’s life story remains a testament to resilience and the transformative power of art.
Tributes Pour In for Michaela DePrince
