This weekend 100 students from across the country celebrated the conclusion of the 15th year of Disney Dreamers Academywith an emotional commencement ceremony featuring an inspirational speech by four-time Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, actress and executive producer Kelly Rowland, musical performances by recording artist Mali Music and Disney Entertainment and a moving ring presentation ceremony to mark the teens’ special achievement.
The teens, or Disney Dreamers as they are called, were selected from among thousands of applicants to participate in the four-day, once-in-a-lifetime educational mentoring program that takes place annually at Walt Disney World Resort.
Drum Major Mickey Mouse
Ambassador Kelly Rowland
Disney Dreamers Academy Executive Champion Tracey D. Powell
During the 2022 event students took part in:
- A unique cavalcade through the Magic Kingdom along with Kelly Rowland and fashion designer Kerby Jean-Raymond
- Exposes showcasing the wide variety of career opportunities in a variety of fields at Walt Disney World and beyond
- Interactive workshops that provided students with hands-on experiences highlighting career paths ranging from medicine to entertainment to engineering and more
- Networking and dress-for-success sessions
- Mentoring by Walt Disney World executives, cast members and other top professionals
- Playtime in the Walt Disney World theme parks including an opportunity to check-out the new Harmonious Nighttime Spectacular and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure attraction at EPCOT
- Motivational presentations and tips to help teens and their parents achieve success
- Celebrity panels featuring fashion designer Kerby Jean-Raymond, gospel artist Kierra Sheard, R&B recording artist Mali Music, actress Faithe Herman of the NBC drama series “This Is Us” and actress Demi Singleton, who played tennis star Serena Williams in the Oscar-nominated film “King Richard” and starred in Disney’s The Lion King on Broadway, among others.
Ryann Richards Young (ATL Dreamer)
“This is among the most rewarding events we host at Walt Disney World,” said Tracey D. Powell, Disney Signature Events vice president and Disney Dreamers Academy executive champion. “Seeing firsthand how these teens are impacted over the course of a few days is an incredible experience and reminder of why we’ve remained committed to this event for 15 years!”
Created and hosted by Walt Disney World Resort, the program is designed to broaden career awareness and create opportunities for Black students and teens from underrepresented communities across America.
Since its inception in 2008, 1,400 students have participated in the career-discovery journey that is Disney Dreamers Academy. Students are inspired to discover new career opportunities, pursue their dreams and interact with participating celebrities and motivational speakers.
The Disney Dreamers program is an important part of Disney’s commitment to supporting diverse communities, such as Black America, by encouraging the next generation to think big and to carry what they learn back with them, so they can relentlessly pursue their dreams and make a difference in the lives of others.
Along with a parent or guardian, each Disney Dreamer received an all-expenses-paid trip to Walt Disney World Resort where they learned important networking skills, participated in hands-on career workshops and created fun memories to cherish for a lifetime.
About Disney Dreamers Academy:
Established by Walt Disney World in 2008, Disney Dreamers Academy’s mission is to inspire young leaders to dream beyond imagination by providing life-long access to personalized support for the Disney Dreamer, their caregivers and community through insightful content and uplifting experts, mentors and sponsors. Each year, 100 high school students are awarded a trip to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida to experience the immersive and transformational program.
Images provided by Disney
