Michaela DePrincea renowned ballerina who defied incredible odds to become a beacon of inspiration, has died at the age of 29. DePrince, an orphan during Sierra Leones Civil War, overcame the hardships of her childhood to rise to the heights of the ballet world. Her death was confirmed Friday through posts on her social media, though no cause of death was announced.
Born Mabinty Bangura in Sierra Leone, DePrince was abandoned by her uncle after her parents were killed during the brutal civil war. She spent her early years in an orphanage where she was neglected due to her skin disease vitiligo. Despite these difficulties, she was adopted by an American family and devoted herself to her passion for ballet.
DePrince’s exceptional talent earned her a place as second soloist at the prestigious Boston Ballet. She previously danced with the Dutch National Ballet and the Dance Theatre of Harlemwhere she thrilled audiences all over the world with her art.

In addition to her ballet career, DePrince was committed to helping children affected by the war. She was an ambassador for War Child Holland and organized the Dare to Dream gala, promoting mental health support for children in conflict zones. Her story was told in the acclaimed documentary First Position, and she also appeared on Beyoncé’s Lemonade, further cementing her influence on the world stage.
DePrince leaves behind a legacy of resilience, grace and humanitarian work, touching countless lives on and off the stage.