Michaela DePrince: America's Trailblazing Ballerina Dies at 29

Ballerina Michaela Mabinty DePrince, who performed with Beyonce and was seen by many as a trailblazer, has died aged 29.

A spokesman announced his death Personal Instagram page And in a statement his family said he was “an unforgettable inspiration to all who knew him or heard his story”.

The cause of death was not reported.

DePrince made a remarkable journey from suffering as an orphan in war-torn Sierra Leone to gaining numerous accolades in the international dance world.

His family Her death was “sudden”, adding: “Michaela touched so many lives around the world, including ours.”

Tributes have poured in, including from others in the ballet community.

Despite being told by American ballerina Misty Copeland that “the world wasn't ready for black ballerinas” or that 'black ballerinas aren't worth investing in', she was determined, focused and began to make big strides. wrote on social media.

Born in Kenema, Sierra Leone in 1995, de Prince was sent to an orphanage at the age of three when both his parents died during the civil war.

He spoke in the past How she was seen as the “devil's child” in the orphanage because she suffered from vitiligo, a condition where patches of skin lose pigmentation.

But the four-year-old was adopted by an American couple and moved to New Jersey. Her adoptive mother quickly noticed her obsession with ballet and enrolled her in classes.

She rose to fame after graduating from high school and made history as the youngest principal dancer in the Dance Theater of Harlem.

DePrince has performed around the world, including on Beyoncé's “Lemonade” music video album.

She joined the prestigious Boston Ballet as a second soloist in 2021 and appeared on the TV show Dancing with the Stars at just 17 years old.

A dedicated humanitarian, de Prince also advocated for children affected by conflict and violence.

Her spokesperson wrote that her artistry “touched countless hearts” and her spirit “inspired so many, leaving an indelible mark on the world of ballet and beyond”.

They added: “His life was defined by grace, purpose and strength. His unwavering commitment to his art, his humanitarian endeavors and his courage to overcome unimaginable challenges will forever inspire us.

“She was a beacon of hope for many, showing that no matter the obstacles, beauty and greatness can rise from darkness.”