Aponte was born in the borough of Manhattan, then moved, at the age of three, to live in the Bronx.
Aponte attended the High School of Performing Arts and received a scholarship to the National Academy of Ballet.
Upon graduation, Aponte was enrolled on scholarship to the trainee program of the Harkness Ballet School.
He made his dance debut in a public performance at the Delacorte Theatre in Central Park.
Shortly after his debut, Aponte entered the Harkness Ballet Company[1] and rose to become principal dancer.