In the heart of Orlando, Walt Disney World opened its doors for its 17th annual Disney Dreamers Academy on April 4, 2024 to April 7, 2024. Every year, this extraordinary event brings together 100 talented young minds nationwide to ignite their passions. In addition, they learn from global leaders through enriching opportunities to broaden career awareness. Far from a typical “youth program,” the Disney Dreamers Academy is an educational mentorship opportunity. Students learn how to dream big and see the tangible rewards resulting from pursuing your dreams wholeheartedly.
The 4-1-1 on the Disney Dreamers Academy
This annual event empowers high school students ages 13 to 19 to embark on a transformative journey. These students learn from industry experts, participate in exciting workshops, and unlock full access to Disney World! The Dreamers Class of 2024 embarked on a transformative four-day adventure, filled with education, inspiration, and the opportunity to cultivate skills that will last a lifetime.
One hundred dynamic students were hand-selected from thousands of applicants for their inspiring words, stories, and minds. Students had the opportunity to immerse themselves in a series of workshops, “Living Labs,” and other hands-on activities carefully crafted to teach, empower, and inspire.
The 2024 Dreamers Academy featured a plethora of talented and influential speakers. From Daymond John of “Shark Tank” to Olympian and “RHOA” alum Sanya Richards-Ross, the students saw how far their dreams could take them.
The Dreamers Academy started with an enchanting parade at the Magic Kingdom led by Mickey Mouse. The students marched alongside classic Disney characters and 2024 DREAMbassador/actress Dara Reneé to officially commence the festivities. After the parade, the Dreamers had full access to the park.
Day 2 kicked off an exciting weekend of activities, opportunities, and Disney magic. Students heard inspirational insights from Tony Weaver Jr, author of “Weirdo.” He exemplified the opportunities that “staying weird” and staying true to yourself can bring. In addition, the students participated in part one of the Disney Dreamers Career Academy, a puppetry workshop led by the creators of “Finding Nemo: The Big Blue…and Beyond.” During the workshop, the students learned about the creative process, trusting your vision, and various career paths.
Artist, activist, and former Disney Imagineer Nikkolas Smith led part two of the Career Academy. Smith spoke about his experiences as an artist and the importance of the students seeing the hero in themselves. Each student was encouraged to draw their ideal superhero. Many showed a variety of powers and strengths, but all held a sense of empathy and community.
Amidst the weekend’s excitement, six students were selected to participate in the Disney Dreamers “Image Makeover.” This transformative experience was curated with a professional image consultant to reflect each student’s unique personality, aspirations, and inner confidence. The students emerged with a blend of style and Disney magic, radiating newfound confidence.
During the Empowerment Hour, attendees enjoyed stimulating conversations with Ross and Paralympic basketball champion Trevon Jenifer. In addition, students had an up-close conversation with Dr. Johnnetta Cole, the first Black female president of Spelman College.
Inside the Disney Dreamers Academy’s Living Laboratories
During the “Living Laboratories” segment, students participated in interactive career mentorship workshops led by top industry professionals. Living Labs allowed students to explore topics that interest them, including culinary arts, film, journalism, law, and more. Dreamers had the opportunity to learn from some of the best and brightest minds across industries while gaining invaluable insights.
Disney’s “Entrepreneurship” Living Lab featured an appearance and heartfelt story about resilience from “Shark Tank” star Daymond John. The shark shared a story about his childhood and the power of relentless striving to achieve your goals, regardless of your upbringing.
John later zeroed in on the power of persistence, commending each student for their resiliency and a well-earned seat at the table. After the inspirational kick-off, the students formed groups to participate in a “Shark Tank”-inspired pitch activity. One student, TeLario, was later awarded the opportunity to attend a live taping of “Shark Tank” due to his exceptional entrepreneurial vision and community-centered initiatives.
Throughout the Disney Dreamers Academy, the #Be100 students enjoyed various enriching experiences, including inspirational stories from industry leaders, interactive workshops led by creative professionals, and exclusive behind-the-scenes access to Disney’s iconic attractions. These activities were mindfully crafted to instill essential life and professional skills around teamwork, creativity, communication, and resilience.
Students received memorabilia to commemorate their experience.
The 2024 Disney Dreamers Academy hosted a special commencement ceremony as the weekend drew to a close. Students enjoyed bold dance performances and listened to inspiring words from speakers, including Lance Gross and Reneé. In addition, attendees enjoyed a performance by Samara Cyn and a magical appearance by Mickey Mouse himself. Each student received a class ring to commemorate their experience at the Disney Dreamers Academy, the life lessons they learned, and the friendships they forged.
This 2024 Disney Dreamers Academy experience was like no other. Students had the opportunity to learn from global leaders across numerous industries including brilliant creatives, business tycoons, professional athletes, Walt Disney World thought leaders, and more.
The Disney Dreamers Academy aims to cultivate the next generation of leaders, innovators, and changemakers by providing them with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to turn their dreams into reality. Celebrating the power of a dream, Disney brought together some of the brightest dreamers nationwide to empower them on their respective journeys to greatness.
These students are future creatives, doctors, entrepreneurs, and more who will influence the world and our futures in many ways. Armed with newfound knowledge and dreams ignited, the Dreamers returned home, recharged, and ready to make their mark on the world.
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