Marissa Luu, a senior at Sammamish High School, discovered her passion for ballet as a child through Pacific Northwest Ballet (PNB). Initially shy, she found an expressive outlet in dance that transcended verbal communication. Her dedication led her to perform the role of Clara in The Nutcracker, solidifying her commitment to ballet. Today, Marissa co-founded Ballet Beyond Borders with Arabela Alvarado, aiming to provide virtual ballet training and mentorship to underprivileged dancers in Africa. This initiative bridges cultural and economic divides, offering young dancers from Kenya, Nigeria, and Uganda access to professional instruction and resources.

Marissa's journey began when she encountered a viral video of Anthony Mmesoma Madu, a Nigerian boy performing ballet barefoot in the rain. Moved by his talent and determination, she recognized the disparity in access to ballet resources between privileged and underprivileged communities. Partnering with Arabela, whom she met during a summer intensive, they embarked on creating Ballet Beyond Borders. Despite challenges such as navigating nonprofit logistics and coordinating across time zones, the program quickly gained traction. They enlisted instructors from prestigious ballet companies, providing high-quality training and personalized mentorship to students.

The program’s impact is evident in the students' progress, from improved technique to enhanced musicality. Mentorship plays a crucial role, fostering confidence and inspiration. Workshops like the Swan Lake-themed session further enrich the learning experience. Marissa envisions expanding Ballet Beyond Borders to Hispanic countries and eventually offering in-person training. Her advice to aspiring changemakers is to start where they are, using available resources and embracing the learning process.

Through Ballet Beyond Borders, Marissa and Arabela are not only transforming lives but also demonstrating the universal power of ballet to inspire and connect people. Their mission highlights the importance of accessibility and inclusivity in the arts, ensuring that dance remains a tool for empowerment and joy for all.