On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a new batch of 100 bright stars burst onto the scene, not just figuratively, but literally at the Walt Disney World Resort. These aren’t ordinary teenagers; they’re dreamers, doers, and the faces of the 2024 Disney Dreamers Academy.
With aspirations that reach for the cosmos, like building rockets that soar through galaxies, this diverse group of high schoolers from across the country is ready to dive into a life-changing experience. The Disney Dreamers Academy, an annual haven for Black and underrepresented teens, isn’t just about pixie dust and theme park thrills. It’s about igniting passions, fueling ambitions, and equipping these young minds with the tools to make their wildest dreams a reality.
From April onwards, these Dreamers will immerse themselves in a whirlwind of inspiration. Renowned mentors, industry leaders, and Disney executives will guide them through workshops on career exploration, leadership development, and financial literacy. Imagine brainstorming the future of nutrition with a renowned dietician, or learning the secrets of storytelling from the masterminds behind Disney’s most beloved characters.
But the magic doesn’t stay confined within classrooms. These Dreamers will walk through the hallowed halls of Walt Disney World, not just as visitors, but as potential future creators. They’ll get a behind-the-scenes peek at the inner workings of the theme park, learning the intricate dance of logistics, creativity, and guest experience that brings Disney stories to life.
This isn’t just about fulfilling Disney fantasies; it’s about planting the seeds for a future where diversity fuels innovation and dreams become blueprints for change. Whether it’s aspiring to become the next Dr. Mae Jemison soaring through space, the champion who revolutionizes public health, or even the next Walt Disney himself, these Dreamers are poised to leave their mark on the world.