Michaela DePrince, born in Sierra Leone, Africa on January 6, 1995, developed a passion for dance at a young age. Despite facing unimaginable challenges, including the loss of her parents during the civil war and mistreatment due to her vitiligo, she persevered. Michaela’s unwavering commitment to her art, her humanitarian efforts, and her courage continue to inspire many. After being adopted by Elaine and Charles DePrince in 1999, she moved to the United States and pursued her dream of becoming a ballerina.

At the age of five, Michaela was enrolled in the Rock School for Dance Education in Philadelphia. She gained recognition after appearing in the documentary *First Position*, which documented her journey and that of other dancers as they prepared for the Youth America Grand Prix dance competition. Michaela went on to perform ‘Giselle’ with the English National Ballet at the Coliseum in London on January 13, 2017. Her impact on the ballet world and her story of triumph over adversity resonate deeply with her audience.

Sadly, Michaela’s cause of death has not yet been determined, leaving her admirers with a sense of loss and sorrow.