Hope in ballerina shoes
Status: NGO Application process open
UnitedWeDance is committed to transforming adversity into opportunity through the power of dance, inspired by Michaela Mabinty DePrince’s extraordinary journey.
Born in war-torn Sierra Leone, Michaela overcame immense hardship to become a world-renowned ballerina, proving that resilience and passion can change lives. In her honor, UnitedWeDance is dedicated to providing ballet education to war-affected and underprivileged children in Africa, giving them the opportunity to heal, grow, and thrive through dance.
In memory of Michaela, we invite NGOs to apply for funding through UnitedWeDance to support ballet education for children in Africa. Applications are open until September 10th, 2025.
Bradford, UK
UnitedWeDance, deeply inspired by the extraordinary journey of Michaela Mabinty DePrince, is committed to transforming adversity into opportunity through the power of dance.
This impact story began with research into the experiences of children affected by conflict, inequality, and limited access to education and well-being. Guided by the SDGs, Good Health and Well-Being (3), Quality Education (4), Decent Work and Economic Growth (8), Reduced Inequalities (10), and Peace, Justice & Strong Institutions (16), we explored how creativity can support healing, empowerment, and inclusion.
In memory of Michaela Mabinty DePrince, we invite NGOs to apply for funding through our program. We aim to support organizations creating positive change in their communities.
We especially welcome applications from NGOs who wish to honour Michaela’s legacy by telling her story, keeping her spirit alive, and driving meaningful change for children who may face similar challenges.
If your project aligns with our values and has lasting impact, we look forward to reviewing your application and exploring potential collaboration. Applications will be open until the 10th of September 2025, marking one year since Michaela's passing.
All submitted NGO applications will be carefully reviewed and shortlisted based on alignment with our values, mission, and SDG focus. Selected NGOs will be interviewed and collaboratively onboarded to define project goals and measurable outcomes.
The one and only original masterpiece inspired by the legendary ballet Swan Lake — a mesmerizing fusion of grace and movement, where ballet’s poetry unfolds on canvas en pointe. Each step leaves an imprint, capturing the eternal beauty of dance in vivid tempera.
Elevating this dynamic composition, the prima ballerina cast delicate feathers mid-performance, allowing them to fuse organically with the paint. The result is a breathtaking action painting where classical elegance and raw artistic expression merge, preserving the essence of motion in an unparalleled work of art.

The very first exhibit of this masterpiece Ballet artwork took place at the Imaging Innovations Art Gallery, University of Bradford.
We welcome partnerships that elevate the message and artistic value of this project. If you are an art curator, gallery manager, collector, or represent an institution interested in exhibiting this piece, we’d love to hear from you. UnitedWeDance is open to collaboration opportunities that align with our mission of transforming stories into impact through art. You can view the artworks here and contact us here to discuss exhibition opportunities.
The original masterpiece artwork has already travelled across regions, reflecting our cross-cultural and mobile storytelling approach. From its creation in Bradford, UK, it is now available for display internationally and housed within the founder’s personal collection in Dubai, UAE, until its next destination when it will be showcased in art galleries and exhibits.
We are committed to full transparency while remaining a profitable social enterprise. As per UAE regulations, we do not collect donations directly. Instead, if and when a verified third-party or NGO-directed crowdfunding campaign is initiated to support this cause, we will showcase it here.
This section will soon display an integrated campaign link or page, enabling our community to support the impact journey externally and directly through our trusted partners.
Stay tuned – the next step of this journey will be powered by collective action.
Check out the unique artworks created through this process and learn how you can be part of this impact story with your contribution. By owning a one-of-a-kind piece, you’ll give a voice to those it represents, bringing meaningful change into your home. Alternatively, you can contribute through the purchase of an affordable art print series.
If it's still out of your budget, take a look at our merchandise below. 20% of all artwork sales, art prints, and merchandise will be directed to the selected NGO that applied for funding. Details on how the funds will be used are listed under Progress.
A defined percentage of profits (e.g., 17% from originals and 20% from prints) will be channelled to the selected NGO partner. These funds support specific local initiatives outlined in the proposal phase and are monitored throughout implementation
We conduct follow-up visits and audits approximately 12 months after profit allocation to ensure that funds are used as intended. Documentation and updates from the field will be shared transparently to close the loop of impact.
Application process open
NGO Partnership pending
UnitedWeDance is now accepting applications from NGOs that align with our mission of creating positive change through art and community engagement. We invite organisations whose work resonates with the story and themes shared above.
To ensure a meaningful collaboration, please review the specific SDGs for this impact story before applying. Only organisations whose efforts directly support these goals will be considered.
Apply now through our NGO Application Form.
The deadline for submissions is 10.09.2025.
We look forward to building impactful partnerships together.
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Ballet/ Swan Lake – original artwork on canvas
Price: 50.000,00 € +5% VAT Add to cart -
Ballet/Swan Lake – entire set of 4 art prints
Price: 179,00 € – 899,00 € +5% VAT Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
Ballet/ Swan Lake – photography art print 4 of 4
Price: 49,00 € – 249,00 € +5% VAT Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
Ballet/ Swan Lake – photography art print 3 of 4
Price: 49,00 € – 249,00 € +5% VAT Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
Ballet/ Swan Lake – photography art print 2 of 4
Price: 49,00 € – 249,00 € +5% VAT Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
Ballet/ Swan Lake – photography art print 1 of 4
Price: 49,00 € – 249,00 € +5% VAT Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Future exhibitions
Join us on an inspiring journey through the world of art. UnitedWeDance is thrilled to host future exhibitions that celebrate the power of creativity, culture, and community. Our upcoming events will showcase unique pieces that tell powerful stories and spark change. Follow us to stay updated and be part of these transformative exhibitions.
Together, we can support art that makes a lasting impact and brings people together. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience these dynamic works and contribute to the movement.
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20. September
2024
Marina
UAE, Dubai

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