Michaela DePrince, the star ballerina and author who escaped war-torn Sierra Leone to become the youngest principal dancer at the Dance Theatre of Harlem, has died. She was 29 years old.

Her death was announced via a statement on DePrince’s Instagram page. The cause of death was not immediately known.

“Her life was one defined by grace, purpose, and strength,” the statement on Instagram reads. “Her unwavering commitment to her art, her humanitarian efforts, and her courage in overcoming unimaginable challenges will forever inspire us. She stood as a beacon of hope for many, showing that no matter the obstacles, beauty and greatness can rise from the darkest of places.

“Though her time with us was far too brief, her brilliance and legacy will continue to shine in the hearts of all who were touched by her story, for generations to come. Love and prayers go to her chosen family, friends, and those who loved her.”

DePrince was little more than a toddler when she saw her first ballerina — an image in a magazine page blown against the gate of the orphanage where she ended up during Sierra Leone’s civil war. It showed an American ballet dancer posed on tip toe.

“All I remember is she looked really, really happy,” Michaela told The Associated Press in 2012, not long before she performed in her first professional full ballet. She wished “to become this exact person.”

From the misery of the orphanage, “I saw hope in it. And I ripped the page out and I stuck it in my underwear because I didn’t have any place to put it.”

Overcoming adversity

DePrince suffered a skin pigmentation disorder that had her labeled “the devil’s child” at the orphanage. Still, she went on to become the youngest principal dancer at the Dance Theatre of Harlem, before moving to the Netherlands to dance with the Dutch National Ballet, according to the statement on Instagram. She performed with the Boston Ballet when she returned to the U.S., “where she continued captivating audiences with her performances.”

A legacy of inspiration

Her memoir, “Taking Flight: From War Orphan to Star Ballerina,” has been translated into multiple languages and published in 12 countries. She also published a follow-up, “Ballet Dreams,” “extending her influence far beyond the stage.”

DePrince was also an advocate for children impacted by conflict and violence and served as an Ambassador for War Child Holland.

A Star is Born

DePrince’s journey from war-torn Sierra Leone to becoming a global ballet star is truly remarkable. Her story is one of resilience, determination, and hope. From a young age, she was exposed to unimaginable hardship, but she never lost sight of her dream of becoming a ballerina. DePrince’s story serves as a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, anything is possible. She will be deeply missed by the ballet community and all those whose lives she touched.

This is a developing story.

This story includes information from Michaela DePrince’s Instagram page and The Associated Press. 

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