11 Year Old Twins Receive Scholarships to the American Ballet Theatre

Eleven-year-old Canadian twins Nia and Imani Lindsay are making a name for themselves in the ballet world. They were awarded scholarships to the American Ballet Theatre’s annual “Young Dancers Summer Workshop” in the summer of 2014 (they were 10 years old at the time). According to ABT’s  website, the workshop “provides an opportunity for serious young dancers, ages 9-11 and 12 year-olds at the beginning pointe level, to actively flourish in a professional, yet nurturing environment. The outstanding faculty members of ABT will provide unparalleled instruction, while remaining sensitive to the developmental needs of younger dancers.” Not only do they continue to develop their skills and talent with some of the best, they are making their students well-rounded, educated ballerinas by offering sessions in nutrition, ballet terminology, dance history, classroom and rehearsal etiquette, and injury prevention.

During an interview with Urban Bush Babies, the young ladies showed off how insightful they are at their young age. They discussed being awarded a scholarship, what it means to work hard, and one of their idols Misty Copeland. saying “I went to meet her,” said Nia. “She was really nice. She’s humble, a good dancer, and not cocky.” “And she’s a good influence,” Imani chimed in. “She’s not like Miley Cyrus at all.”

In a time when Black youth are rising in the arts and their voices are more prevalent in the fight for justice, Whitney Houston’s “The Greatest Love Of All” is quite true: the children are the future. These two young ladies are proof of that, continuing to break the mold and exist in spaces that traditionally aren’t “for us.” It’s a good reminder to see when the youth do something positive and groundbreaking. It’s our responsibility to lift them up and to encourage them to never give up on their dreams. This one is for you Nia and Imani. Broadway Black always has your back.

Check the talented duo in a video below! For more, you can subscribe to their YouTube channel here!