in the Makeni area of the Bombali District in Sierra Leone. Then she
lived in an orphanage in Makeni for another year. Her childhood continued in the United States; southern New Jersey to be exact. Before her
journey to the United States she recalls her earliest years as pleasant
until her father was killed by rebels during the 11 year civil war in Sierra Leone and her mother died of starvation. Life in the orphanage
was one
continuous nightmare of
hunger,
mistreatment and fear. She
“Ballet requires
was also
alienated due to her skin
dedication, hard work
condition
known as virtiligo, which
causes depigmentation. In contrast,
and incredible selfMichaela’s
experience in the United
discipline.”
States with
her adoptive parents, sisters
and brothers has been satisfying. Now
at age 18
and a professional ballet
dancer she accounts “I suppose that I could say that my childhood here
has been idyllic. It is a large, warm and loving family.”
In her professional work as a ballerina Michaela learned that nothing is gained without hard work and
dedication. Michaela’s experience has also taught her to reach out to others through her art because
dancing and music touches the heart of all people. When asked what Michaela would like to express to
her supporters, she said “I am most grateful to those who have supported me through my years of ballet
study, including my beloved parents, my teachers and my fans.” Ordinarily a shy and private person,
Michaela is aware that her success enables her to reach kids in need of her message. She goes on to say
“challenges in the world of classical ballet still exist, as the profession is dominated by white female
dancers.” Michaela is out to prove that black girls can be classical ballerinas too. For men and women
who seek to get into the industry, Michaela advises them to recognize that ballet requires dedication, hard
work and incredible self-discipline.
As Michaela reflects she clearly spells out the most important person in her life as her American mother.
“Whatever I needed, she has found a way to give it to me. When I needed tutus for competitions, but
they were unaffordable to us, my mother learned how to make them. Everything I have learned that is
good has come from her teaching. Best of all, my mother practices what she preaches.” She emphasizes
that in life, it isn’t enough to take. One must give back. She plans to continue to excel in the world of
classical ballet and become a prima someday, the leading role. Looking ahead, Michaela dreams of opening a free school specializing in dance, music and the arts for girls in Sierra Leone.
Learn more about Professional Ballet Dancer Michaela DePrince at http://www.michaeladeprince.com
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Photography: Jade Young