The recent death of Michaela DePrince, the talented dancer and Nike ambassador, has left the world of dance and sports in deep sorrow and shock.
The gifted dancer, who also served as a Nike ambassador, inspired thousands with her story of resilience and her accomplishments in ballet. The news of her passing was shared on her social media, though the cause of her death has not yet been revealed.
Who Was Michaela Mabinty DePrince?
Michaela Mabinty DePrince, born in Sierra Leone and adopted by an American family, overcame every obstacle life put in her path from an early age. At just four years old, after losing her parents during her country’s civil war, she was adopted by Elaine and Charles DePrince, who supported her passion for ballet.
From a young age, Michaela excelled in the world of dance, despite facing discrimination as a Black ballerina. Over time, she became a key figure in the fight for inclusion and visibility of dancers of color in classical ballet.
Nike, the brand Michaela represented as an ambassador, expressed its grief at the news:
“We are heartbroken by the passing of Michaela Mabinty DePrince. Mabinty was an incredible athlete who inspired us and people around the world to pursue their dreams, no matter the barriers or obstacles.
“She was a beloved member of the Nike family, and her story will continue to live on through her memories and her remarkable work with disadvantaged youth,” the brand wrote.
Ver esta publicación en Instagram
A Life Marked by Dance
Michaela DePrince gained international recognition following her appearance in the 2011 documentary First Position, which depicted the lives of young dancers as they prepared for the prestigious Youth America Grand Prix competition. She later joined the Dance Theatre of Harlem, becoming the youngest dancer in the company’s history.
In 2013, her career took her to the Dutch National Ballet, where she stood out as a soloist, cementing her place among the top figures in the world of ballet. Her performance in Beyoncé’s Lemonade video in 2016 expanded her recognition beyond ballet, attracting widespread attention.
Throughout her career, Michaela not only shone on stage but also dedicated herself to humanitarian causes. She never forgot her difficult childhood in Sierra Leone, and her dream was to open a dance school in her native country to provide opportunities for underprivileged children. In 2015, she published her book Taking Flight: From War Orphan to Star Ballerina, in which she shared her inspiring story of overcoming adversity.
In a statement, her sister Mia DePrince expressed the family’s sorrow: “Since we were children in the orphanage, Michaela and I dreamed of becoming dancers. Today, that light that inspired so many is no longer with us, but her legacy of strength, beauty, and courage will live on.”
An Icon, an Inspiration
Michaela DePrince’s life was a symbol of hope for many. Despite the hardships she faced, from the war in her homeland to racism in ballet, she never stopped fighting for her dreams. Her story will remain a testament to how art can transform lives and overcome even the toughest obstacles.
What Did Michaela DePrince Die Of?
As of now, the cause of Michaela DePrince’s death has not been publicly disclosed. Neither her family nor close friends have shared any information. The announcement of her passing was made on her social media, but no further details about the circumstances have been provided.
ALSO READ. Target denies opening stores in Mexico
