In 2015 history was forever changed when ballet dancer Misty Copeland became the first African American principle dancer in the history of the American Ballet Theatre. I mean, how cool is it to be alive during so many social changes?! One day when we’re all old and gray we can tell our grandkids all the things we’ve seen. Anyways, according to Misty Copeland’s sleek, personal website she started her journey years before this great accomplishment by being awarded Coca-Cola’s sought after scholarship, and worked her way up from there. She slowly, but surely danced her way to the leading role in two of the most well-known ballets, The Nutcracker and Swan Lake. Misty Copeland is an inspiration to all young women, both in the world of dance, and to young women of color.

Image Credit: Misty’s Gallery / Misty Copeland Website

During my freshman year at IUSB, I had to pick a fitness class, and while jogging at 8am twice a week sounded oh-so-exciting (not. at. all.) I looked into other options. There were many dancing classes to choose from: ballet, tap, jazz, and Middle Eastern. I chose to take the Middle Eastern dance class, due to the beautiful movements, rich history, and culture I’d be able to learn about while staying physically fit. This further solidified by appreciation for the sheer work dancers such as Misty Copeland put into their art. To become as successful as she is, Misty put in countless hours practicing and performing. She wanted to live up to her full potential — which she absolutely has, and then some.

Image Credit: FreeImages / Free Nutcracker Ballet Stock photo

In her acceptance speech for the Young, Gifted & Black Award Misty said she wants to inspire other young women to follow their dreams and become successful ballerinas if they so choose. Misty said she wants to be, “for them [young black women] what I did not have while growing up – a mentor, role model, someone who looks like them.” Misty Copeland is a trailblazer for young women, she is inspiring and understands that she is a woman that young girls look up to. This pure fact has led her to not only dance but be involved in charities, actively take on endorsements, and to write two books, as well. I didn’t know she had two books out until yesterday, but now that I do, they’re moving to the top of my book list!

She is the first empowering woman to be spotlighted on Woman Crush Wednesday, because she is a hard working, and inspiring young lady that deserves to be recognized for her countless hours practicing and success. If you have a personal story related to the world of dance, Misty Copeland, or suggestions for the next empowering woman to be spotlighted please comment it down below!