Misty Copeland Speaking Fee: $50,000 to $75,000

Misty Copeland's journey to becoming a world-renowned ballerina is nothing short of inspiring. Born in Kansas City, Missouri, and raised in San Pedro, California, Misty discovered dance at the comparatively late age of 13. Despite her modest beginnings, including living in a welfare motel with her family, Misty's talent could not be overlooked. Under the guidance of her first teacher, Cynthia Bradley, she caught up on years of training often completed by dancers much younger and began to build an extraordinary career. Rising quickly through the ranks, Misty joined the American Ballet Theatre (ABT) in 2001. Just four years later, she became the companyÕs first African American female soloist in two decades. In 2015, Misty shattered another glass ceiling when she was promoted to principal dancer, making history as the first African American woman to hold this title in the ABT's 75-year history. Her performances in classics like "Swan Lake" and "The Nutcracker" have garnered rave reviews and solidified her status as an influential figure in the arts. Beyond the stage, Misty is a best-selling author and a dedicated advocate for diversity and inclusion in ballet and the broader world of dance. Her memoir, "Life in Motion: An Unlikely Ballerina," and her childrenÕs book, "Firebird," have touched countless lives, offering inspiration and a blueprint for overcoming adversity. She frequently speaks about her experiences, aiming to empower the next generation of artists and dreamers. Misty's influence also extends to television and film. She has appeared as a guest star on various TV shows, inspired a documentary titled "A BallerinaÕs Tale," and even made her Broadway debut. Each of these ventures showcases her versatility and broad appeal, proving that she is not just a dancer but a multifaceted artist and public figure. Despite her many accolades, Misty remains grounded and committed to her craft and community. Whether through her performances, outreach work, or speaking engagements, she continues to inspire and advocate for change. Misty Copeland is not only a trailblazer in the world of ballet but also a beacon of hope and resilience to many.