When it comes to redefining stereotypes and smashing through barriers, Misty Copeland is at the forefront of our minds. Anyone who saw her Under Armour ‘I Will What I Want’ ad back in July 2014 will be very familiar with her incredible athleticism and grace.
Ballet was only introduced into Copeland’s life when she was 13, but straight away she showed a genuine talent and passion for the dance. Despite being offered a contract to dance professionally at the age of 17, she chose to stay in school until she graduated.
This decision that most people would struggle with; how do you say no when your dream is handed to you? Her choice to finish her education makes us admire her even more (if that’s even possible).
In June 2015, Misty Copland became the first African-American woman to be named the lead dancer at the American Ballet Theatre. It definitely appears that the ballet-beaut has made it her mission to keep breaking down barriers and fighting for more diversity in ballet. To that we say, “Bravo!”.
She is a role model to all women that change can happen and that just because you don’t fit others’ expectations you can still succeed.