Taking Flight
Michaela DePrince and Elaine Deprince
26 min
9 Key Points
4.5 RateWhat's inside?
Experience the inspiring journey of a war orphan who overcomes adversity to become a renowned star ballerina.
You'll learn
1. Bouncing back from tough times2. Becoming a pro ballerina3. How war affects kids' futures4. Why you should follow your dreams5. How adoption can change lives6. The real deal about ballet life.Key points
01The Birth of Mabinty Bangura
In the heart of Sierra Leone, in a small village brimming with the rich cultural traditions of the Mende tribe, a star was born in 1995. Mabinty Bangura, who would later be known to the world as Michaela DePrince, began her life in a community that valued its heritage and the simple joys of life. Her early years were shaped by the rhythms of village life, the stories of her father's travels, and the lullabies of her mother. These elements, though seemingly ordinary, played a significant role in molding Mabinty's character and resilience. Mabinty's parents, despite their humble means, were pillars of their community. Her father, a trader, was known for his business acumen, while her mother, a homemaker, was celebrated for her culinary skills and her love for traditional Mende music and dance. Their influence on Mabinty was profound, instilling in her a sense of curiosity, a love for music and dance, and a deep respect for her cultural heritage. Education, a rarity for girls in their community, was a priority for Mabinty's parents. They understood the power of knowledge and the doors it could open for their daughter. This early exposure to education would later serve as a beacon of hope for Mabinty, guiding her through the darkest periods of her life. However, the peaceful rhythms of Mabinty's childhood were abruptly disrupted by the eruption of the Sierra Leone Civil War in 1991. The war, which lasted for over a decade, brought untold suffering to the people of Sierra Leone, including Mabinty's family. The loss of her parents to the war and disease left Mabinty orphaned at a very young age. This tragic event marked a turning point in her life, pushing her into a world of uncertainty and hardship. Yet, amidst the chaos and despair, Mabinty's spirit remained unbroken. Her resilience in the face of adversity was remarkable. It was during these challenging times that Mabinty discovered a magazine cover featuring a ballerina. This image ignited a passion for dance within her, a passion that would serve as a lifeline in the years to come. Mabinty's journey from a war-torn village in Sierra Leone to becoming a world-renowned ballerina is a testament to her indomitable spirit and resilience. Her early years, steeped in the rich traditions of the Mende tribe, her parents' influence, and her passion for dance, played a significant role in shaping her into the person she is today. The birth of Mabinty Bangura is not just the birth of an individual, but the birth of resilience, determination, and a dream that transcended the boundaries of a small village in Sierra Leone.
02The Ravages of War
The civil war in Sierra Leone, which began in 1991, was a period of profound devastation and chaos. The widespread violence, destruction, and human rights abuses created an environment of fear and uncertainty, particularly for the most vulnerable members of society - the children. One such child was Michaela, whose life was irrevocably altered by the brutalities of the war. The war claimed the life of Michaela's father, a trader who was murdered by the Revolutionary United Front (RUF) rebels. His death was not a result of his involvement in the conflict, but rather a tragic consequence of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. This event marked a significant turning point in Michaela's life, instilling in her a deep sense of loss and fear. The death of a parent is a traumatic event for any child, but in the context of a war, it also meant the loss of protection and a source of sustenance. Following her father's death, Michaela's mother faced the daunting task of providing for her children amidst the chaos of the war. The scarcity of food and medical supplies, coupled with the constant threat of violence, made survival a daily struggle. Tragically, she succumbed to malnutrition and a fever, likely malaria, leaving Michaela orphaned at the tender age of three. This event further underscored the harsh realities of life in a war-torn country, where even basic necessities like food and healthcare are luxuries. The war also had a broader impact on Sierra Leone's society. The destruction of infrastructure, the displacement of people, and the breakdown of social order all contributed to the hardships faced by Michaela and her family. The closure of schools, in particular, deprived Michaela and many other children of their right to education, further limiting their prospects for the future. Despite these adversities, Michaela found solace in dance. Amidst the rubble of her war-torn home, she discovered a magazine with a ballerina on the cover, sparking a dream that would eventually lead her to become a world-renowned ballerina. This event is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, demonstrating that even in the most dire circumstances, hope and dreams can flourish. In conclusion, the civil war in Sierra Leone had a profound impact on Michaela's life, shaping her experiences and influencing her future. The loss of her parents, the hardships of living in a war-torn country, and the deprivation of education all played a role in shaping her journey. However, her discovery of dance provided a beacon of hope, demonstrating the power of dreams and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
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03Life in the Orphanage
04The Magazine that Changed Everything
05Adoption and a New Beginning
06The Dance Begins
07Rising Star
08Breaking Barriers
09Conclusion
About Michaela DePrince and Elaine Deprince
Michaela DePrince is a Sierra Leonean-American ballet dancer who went from being a war orphan to a world-renowned ballerina. Elaine DePrince, her adoptive mother, is an author who often collaborates with her daughter to share their inspiring journey.