Ingrid Silva: Ballerina and Activist

Some 17 years ago, Ingrid Silva moved from the humble outskirts of the city of Rio de Janeiro to one of the most acclaimed ballet companies in the US. Nowadays, she is principal leading dancer at Dancer of Dance Theatre of Harlem, a ballet company which is renowned worldwide for prioritizing Afro-descendant dancers in their casting.

Ingrid Silva gained global prominence by becoming the first black ballerina to have her pointe shoes customized for the color of her skin. In 2020, her painted pointe shoes, which she used to paint with makeup in order to match her skin tone for years, are now exhibited in The Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture.

As well as being a world-famous ballet dancer, Ingrid is the author of the books: the autobiography “A sapatilha que mudou meu mundo”, by Globo Livros, and the children’s book “A bailarina que pintava suas sapatilhas”, by Globinho and stands out for her activism and is considered an important voice of her generation.

In 2017, Ingrid founded the non-profit organization PodHer that aims to amplify women’s voices in matters regarding various areas and fosters female sorority. “We are a platform that generates opportunities for education and network for those aspiring to claim their own path”, said Ingrid Silva.

She is also the Co-Founder of Blacks in Ballet Celebrating dancers of color across the world, providing educational resources and opportunities, She’s also the Co – Founder of Dancers and Motherhood a platform created by All four women who are professionals and leaders in the dance world, but who are above all, mothers. Dancers and Motherhood believe we can unite for a more inclusive dance world. Unite by sharing our experiences, without judgement, to encourage empathy and changes needed to support families in the dance community.