Michaela DePrince

File:Michaela DePrince for Teen Vogue.ogv Michaela DePrince (born January 6, 1995) is a Sierra Leonean-American ballet dancer and author. She is currently a soloist at the Dutch National Ballet in Amsterdam, Netherlands. DePrince gained international recognition for her remarkable journey from an orphan in war-torn Sierra Leone to a celebrated ballet dancer.

Early Life

Michaela DePrince was born as Mabinty Bangura in Sierra Leone. During the Sierra Leone Civil War, she was orphaned and placed in an orphanage. She was later adopted by an American family, Charles and Elaine DePrince, and moved to the United States.

Ballet Career

DePrince began her ballet training at the age of four. She studied at the Rock School for Dance Education in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and later attended the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School at the American Ballet Theatre in New York City.

In 2012, DePrince joined the Dance Theatre of Harlem as a professional dancer. She later moved to the Dutch National Ballet in 2013, where she quickly rose through the ranks to become a soloist.

Achievements and Recognition

DePrince has performed in numerous productions, including The Nutcracker, Giselle, and Don Quixote. She is known for her technical prowess and emotional depth in her performances.

In addition to her ballet career, DePrince co-authored the memoir Taking Flight: From War Orphan to Star Ballerina with her adoptive mother, Elaine DePrince. The book details her life story and has inspired many around the world.

Advocacy and Philanthropy

DePrince is an advocate for diversity in ballet and works to inspire young dancers from underrepresented backgrounds. She has been involved in various charitable activities and has spoken at numerous events about her experiences and the importance of perseverance and resilience.

Personal Life

Michaela DePrince continues to reside in Amsterdam and remains active in the ballet community. She is also involved in various projects aimed at promoting the arts and supporting young dancers.

See Also

• Ballet
• Dutch National Ballet
• Dance Theatre of Harlem
• Sierra Leone Civil War
• Taking Flight: From War Orphan to Star Ballerina