Disney Dreamers Academy: Are you raising a Dreamer?

What is the Disney Dreamer Academy?

2024 DREAMbassador Dara Reneé

“There are few things that I’m more passionate about than nurturing the lives of young people, especially talented ones who just need a little inspiration,” said Reneé. “Being the DREAMbassador for Disney Dreamers Academy this year is the perfect way for me to help engage with these young minds and hopefully offer them the guidance and spark they need to blow open the doors to their career dreams.’’

Origin Story

The Disney Dreamers Academy is a five-day event that brings together 100 exceptional high school students. They get to connect with a diverse group of inspiring personalities, including Disney Cast Members, celebrities, industry experts, and community leaders. The program features motivational talks, career-driven activities, networking opportunities, and hands on experiences. It aims to empower students to develop their interpersonal skills and build the confidence they need to achieve their goals.

The program is an integral part of Walt Disney World's commitment to supporting diverse communities. It draws inspiration from Walt Disney's example of having a dream and believing in his talent despite rejection. In 2008, Walt Disney World established the Disney Dreamers Academy with the aim of helping students achieve their dreams.

The event is hosted annually at Walt Disney World Resort, in conjunction with sponsors. In 2024, the sponsors were Sprite, Delta, and AT&T. Out of thousands of applicants, 100 students from underrepresented communities are selected to participate. The selected students, accompanied by a parent or guardian, receive a fully-funded trip to Walt Disney World to take part in this impactful program.

Are you a future Disney Dreamer?

If you are a high school student residing in the United States between the ages of 13 and 19, you have an amazing chance to apply for the Disney Dreamers Academy. This program is specially designed to assist you in achieving your post-high school and college dreams and goals by providing you with a strong skill set to build upon. The main requirement to apply is that you have a dream or a goal that you are working towards. There is no academic requirement to apply, so anyone with a dream can apply.

If you're selected as a Disney Dreamer, you and one of your parents or guardians will receive an all-expense paid trip to Walt Disney World, where the Academy will take place. This includes airfare, if you live too far to drive, a stay at an on-property resort of the Academy's choosing, meals, and park tickets. It's a fantastic opportunity to learn from top professionals in various fields, explore your interests and passions, and make lifelong connections.

Feature 2024 Dreamer Alumni:

TeLario Watkins II

I am a 16 year old entrepreneur, author, speaker and Hunger Hero from Columbus, Ohio. I am currently a sophomore at LH HS in Ohio. At age 7, I started my own business, Tiger Mushroom Farms after a Cub Scout project ended. I am passionate about food justice and started the nonprofit, The Garden Club Project to help end hunger & encourage kids to eat healthier. My interests include technology in agriculture, gardening, traveling, and watching and reading anime. My career goal is to use technology to improve the food system in my community and communities around the world.

Daymond John, the successful businessman and investor of ABC's 'Shark Tank', gave a surprise visit to a young entrepreneur named Te'Lario Watkins II on Saturday during Disney Dreamers Academy at Walt Disney World Resort. Watkins, a 16-year-old from Blacklick, OH, was in the middle of a media interview when John appeared and gave him a personal invitation to visit the ABC show set in Los Angeles. Watkins was left speechless and thrilled by the magical surprise.

How do I apply:

Applications typically open in the summer for the following year's event. Applicants must complete a series of three essays and three rapid-fire questions by providing their own answers and responses. To stay current, ensure you are following their social media and blog. Disney Dreamers Academy Instagram | Disney Dreamers Website

If you think you are raising a dreamer, here are some signs to look for:

- They are curious and enjoy learning and being creative.

- They are kind and care about others.

- They are brave and can face challenges with confidence.

- They have a positive attitude and like to share with others.

- They see the future in a positive way.

Overview of the Five Days at Walt Disney World

Day 1: Welcome and Orientation - Participants arrive at Walt Disney World Resort and are welcomed with an orientation session, setting the stage for the days ahead. The group is taken to Magic Kingdom Park, where they will march in a cavalcade led by Drumline Mickey before the Festival of Fantasy parade.

Day 2: Dreamers participate in a full day of workshops and mentorship sessions known as the Living Labs, where they connect with industry professionals and gain valuable insights in their respective fields. The event focuses on career exploration and networking, offering participants the opportunity to explore diverse career paths through interactive experiences and networking opportunities. They can connect with mentors and peers to learn from their experiences and expand their professional network.

Day 3: Personal Development and Action Planning - Dreamers identify their strengths, passions, and goals to create action plans for personal development. That night the Dreamers all celebrate together before ending their five day journey.

Day 4: As the program draws to a close, a grand commencement celebration will honor the achievements of all participants. The event will be a time for reflection and farewells, leaving each participant with a renewed sense of purpose and inspiration to make a difference in their communities. With a fabulous ceremony and the presentation of class rings, participants will bid farewell, knowing they have accomplished great things and are ready to take on the world. There is not a dry eye in the house at this ceremony.

During their stay, dreamers are given park tickets for each day to one of the four theme parks. This allows them to take a break from their sessions and enjoy some leisure time at the parks as part of their experience. They can explore the parks during their downtime and have some fun in between their sessions.

At the Disney Dreamer Academy, I discovered something truly beautiful - a place where not only the young dreamers are nurtured but also their chaperones. From grandparents to family members and mentors, everyone is given the attention they need to help their dreamer achieve success. And what's more, they are also encouraged to pursue their own dreams and aspirations. It's an inspiring environment that truly fosters growth and development.

Dreamers enjoying the theme parks

Reasons to Apply to The Dreamers Academy:

Empowering Workshops: Immerse yourself in workshops led by industry professionals designed to unlock your potential and equip you with valuable life skills.

Mentorship Opportunities: Learn from accomplished leaders in various fields, including entertainment, entrepreneurship, and community engagement.

Networking: Build a supportive network with like-minded peers that lasts a lifetime.

Exclusive Access: Experience the magic of Walt Disney World Resort and learn about the inner workings of one of the world's most beloved entertainment companies.

Personal Growth: Challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone, overcome obstacles, and discover your true passions and strengths.

Career Insights: Explore diverse career paths and gain invaluable insights into various fields of interest. 

Leadership Development: Cultivate leadership skills that will empower you to positively impact your community and beyond.

Celebrity Encounters: Meet celebrities and industry icons who will share their stories of success and inspire you to pursue your dreams fearlessly.

Life-Changing Experience: Join a select group of Dreamers who have the opportunity to experience a once-in-a-lifetime journey that will shape their futures and leave a lasting impact.

I hope the information provided has been helpful in assisting you to decide whether you want to take a chance and apply for The Disney Dreamers Academy. Are you ready to unlock your potential and take the first step to achieving your dreams? The Disney Dreamers Academy is waiting for you to join the ranks of past and present Disney Dreamers who have overcome obstacles and achieved their goals. Don't miss this life-changing opportunity to make your dreams come true!

All our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them.” - Walt Disney

For more information, visit DisneyDreamersAcademy.com. Regular updates about Disney Dreamers Academy are also available at Facebook.com/DisneyDreamersAcademy and Instagram.com/disneydreamersacademy.