Jessica Mickelson 4/8/24 Jessica Mickelson 4/8/24

A Magical Experience: 2024 Disney Dreamers Academy

Have you ever had an experience that made you feel like you were stepping into a life-changing event? That's how I felt attending the Disney Dreamers Academy as part of the Media team for 2024. Here is my personal expereince of what it was like for my first media call for the Disney Dreamers Academy.

Have you ever had an experience that made you feel like you were stepping into a life-changing event? That's how I felt attending the Disney Dreamers Academy now as part of the Media team for 2024. When I received the email inviting me to participate in the event, I didn't hesitate to reply with a resounding yes. I've been following the Disney Dreamers Academy for a few years, so the opportunity to attend this event was a no-brainer.

This year marks the 17th anniversary of Disney Dreamers Academy, an annual five-day event designed to provide 100 teens from underrepresented communities across America with opportunities to broaden their career awareness. Here is my personal experience attending this inspiring event.

Day One: A March Down Main Street U.S.A

We arrived at Disney's Contemporary Resort Convention Hall on the first day to collect our badges and meet our Disney representatives, Tiffani and Adam. One of the highlights of the experience was spending time with this media group. I was in a group with Brianna from @expeditionwatson, Adriana from @bibbidibobbidi_broke, CJ from @wdwmagiazine, Alan from @mouseplanet and Jeremiah from The Laughing Place.

We were given our schedule of events and then we were off! The first event was located at Magic Kingdom Park. The new class of Disney Dreamers was set to appear in a pre-parade cavalcade. We were escorted to the media section, where we secured our spots to catch a glimpse of the new class. Magic Kingdom Park was packed this day. In fact, the park was at capacity, so park hopping was not an option. Despite the crowds, the weather was perfect, and there was so much excitement buzzing on Main Street U.S.A.

The Disney Dreamers of 2024 were led by Drumline Mickey, who high-stepped his way down Main Street. In the Grand Marshall Car Princess Tiana, Dara Reneé the 2024 DREAMbassador, an actress from High School Musical: The Musical: The Series and the upcoming Descendants: The Rise of Red, Executive Champion Tracey Powell and one lucky Dreamer followed behind Mickey and Crew.

The new class of Dreamers wore t-shirts in various colors, which were grouped according to their multiple areas of interest. The Dreamers held up signs representing the attributes of Dreamers and the different states that were represented in this years class. In this class, 26 states were represented! Including ten from the Northeast (woo-hoo!)

Read about a past Disney Dreamer was from Kutztown, PA!

After the Dreamers marched in the parade, we went to the media area on the Castle Hub. There, we interviewed the 2024 DREAMbassador, Dara Renee, and the Executive Champion, Tracey Powell.

Day Two: Living Labs

Dreamers at the Living Labs

Throughout the weekend, I had the opportunity to watch the Dreamers attend workshops led by industry experts and participate in interactive sessions. We were paired with the Engineer group, which had three subgroups: Imagineering, Aerospace, and Marine Biology.

The first group I followed was Imagineering. We were escorted to a room lined with tables and a large screen in front. Once we were seated in the room, we realized the man on the screen was the legendary Imagineer Lanny Smoot. The kids were excited, some whispering, "No way." Imagine having a dream to become an Imagineer and then having the chance to attend a seminar where a Disney Legend was presenting to you. At the end of the seminar, Lanny answered all questions one by one as students emptied their seats to have a chance to sit in front of the Disney Legend and personally ask their questions. He was patient and kind; even after stating he had a meeting, and then stayed well over half an hour longer to ensure all students had their chance to ask their questions. I am sure for many kids in the room that day, this was a pivotal moment in their origin story.

The next group we watched was a small group of aerospace engineers dominated by girls (who run the world! Girls!) They had a one-on-one session with employees from Zero-g, a company that provides zero-gravity flights for astronaut training, scientific research, and leisure activities. This was everyone's first step into space. The Dreamers in the group got one-on-one time to ask any questions they had, and the presentation was about how astronauts prepare for space. They also learned what happens when packages need to be sent to the astronauts, when they are running low on food or other supplies they may need in space. The kids got hands-on experience and could go through some of the packs that were sent into space. One Dreamer even won an opportunity to go inside the simulator.

Our last group was the Marine Biology group. We headed to the Land Pavilion backstage to watch the Dreamers work with Danni Washington. The Dreamers took turns practicing how to interview marine biologists by asking them questions about the profession and what skills someone who wants to get into marine biology should possess. Danni guided them and had them film each other, giving them tips on how to speak about their passion on camera. After that, we followed them inside EPCOT's Seabase, where they filmed different sea animals with Danni's guidance.

I was thrilled when I got the opporunity to spend more time with Joci, Zahra, and Eleanor. Zahra and I connected when we realized that she was from a town just 20 minutes away from where I grew up outside of Dallas. They also shared some of their fears and insecurities, stating that there were so many people in the room who had already achieved so much. I took the chance to reassure them that they belonged in any room they were in, as they worked just as hard as some of those who they felt had achieved more and were in the same program. I explained that imposter syndrome can get the best of us sometimes, but it's important to remember that their hard work got them in the room, so they deserved to be there. It was a wonderful experience to connect with these Dreamers and learn more about the experience they were going through. I took the opportunity to ask them about their favorite weekend experiences.

All Dreamers were asked, “What was the best part of the the Dreamers Academy?” (this was only day 2)

The Surprise of a Lifetime!

Daymond John surprised young entrepreneur Te'Lario Watkins II at Disney Dreamers Academy by inviting him to join him on the set of ‘Shark Tank’ during a taping in Los Angeles. Watkins is only 16 and has been running his own business, Tiger Mushroom Farms, since he was 7. He also founded a non-profit called the Garden Club Project.

Day Four: Commencement

On day four, I attended the commencement on Sunday to celebrate the 2024 Class of Disney Dreamers. I expected it to be an emotional experience, but the level of magic in the room exceeded my expectations.

During the ceremony, the Dreamers revisited some of the best moments of their four-day experience at the resort. One of the highlights was when they announced who they thought should be the Dreamer of the Year. I noticed a Dreamer in the center of the room cheering loudly for every name on the video where Dreamers were stating who they would nominate. When Tracy Powell took the stage to announce the winner, it was the same kid who had been cheering for everyone else. His name had never been mentioned in the video, so he was shocked when he realized he had won. It's a special feeling to be accepted to the Disney Dreamers Academy, but it's even more special when you realize that you are revered among your peers.

Another highlight of the commencement was the presentation of the rings. I didn't know this was part of the commencement ceremony, but it's a beautiful way to end this experience. I remember looking at Adrianna, and I said, “please tell me the parents are not giving the ring to their Dreamers” because she knew I was going to lose it. We laughed and then cried. Going on a journey like this, from the application process, to acceptance and completion of the academy, is remarkable. Having someone in your life to support you through it and present you with a gift like this, is a moment that Dreamers and chaperones will cherish for a lifetime.

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At the end of the ceremony, not a single eye was left dry in the Fantasia Ballroom. The magic of the experience lingered all around us as the final songs were sung, and an explosion of Mickey confetti filled the air. This was a star-studded event, with some of the best entertainment I have ever seen at Walt Disney World Resort. As Mickey gave his final wave goodbye, you are reminded that this beautiful Disney journey that we’ve all been on, “all started with a mouse.”

The Disney Dreamers Academy was a truly inspiring experience that reminded me that no dream is too big and no goal is impossible to achieve if we believe in ourselves and pursue our passions with dedication. Attending this event was not just about experiencing the magic of Disney; it was about discovering the magic within ourselves and embracing the countless possibilities that await when we dare to dream. Disney Dreamers Academy not only inspires teens to pursue their dreams but also provides them with the tools to achieve them.

“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.

I am living my dream too!

Jessica Mickelson 4/8/24 Jessica Mickelson 4/8/24

Disney Dreamers Academy: Are you raising a Dreamer?

Are you ready for a transformative experience that could redefine your future? Look no further than the Disney Dreamers Academy! This program is a symbol of hope and opportunity for young minds who are eager to unlock their full potential. If you're ready to become the next Disney Dreamer, here's everything you need to know about this life-changing four-day program hosted at Walt Disney World Resort.

What is the Disney Dreamer Academy?

“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