Local Dreamers selected from nearly 10,000 applicants at eighth-annual career and mentoring event in March
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Walt Disney World Resort has announced the 100 high school students selected for the 2015 Disney Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey and ESSENCE Magazine, March 5-8. The teens, along with a parent or guardian, will receive an all-expense-paid trip to Walt Disney World Resort, where they will take part in a once-in-lifetime educational and mentoring program designed to inspire them to dream big, discover a world of possibilities and prepare for their future.
In the magical setting of Walt Disney World Resort, participants – also identified as “Dreamers” – learn important skills such as communication techniques and networking strategies, build confidence and create fun memories to cherish for a lifetime.
During Disney Dreamers Academy, the Walt Disney World theme parks become vibrant “classrooms,” where Dreamers participate in hands-on, full-immersion workshops led by industry experts. Covering a bevy of career paths, ranging from animation to zoology, the workshops do more than expose students to a career choice; they bring to life an opportunity that otherwise might seem distant or impossible.
Each year, motivational speakers, celebrities, entrepreneurs, executives and Disney Cast Members gather at Disney Dreamers Academy to share their stories and provide insight on charting a positive course and achievement.
“Year after year, Disney Dreamers Academy continues to help students dream big and achieve those dreams,” said Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Vice President of Deluxe Resorts and Disney Dreamers Academy Executive Champion Tracey D. Powell. “Entering our eighth year, it is rewarding to hear the success stories of past Dreamers and how the program has inspired them. From starting their own businesses to travelling the world helping others, to serving as inspirational speakers, our Dreamers have already had tremendous success in impacting the world. Once again, we look forward to welcoming yet another group of amazing teens.”
Walt Disney World Resort, along with Steve Harvey, syndicated television and radio personality, and ESSENCE Magazine, will host the selected Dreamers during their four-day power packed career and educational exploration.
Harvey, speaking on the program, says, “Disney Dreamers Academy gives hope and inspiration, and exposes youth to a world of possibilities. We are excited about another opportunity to transform lives and give students an inside look at what their future can hold.”
ESSENCE Communications President Michelle Ebanks added, “We are excited about the eighth Disney Dreamers Academy. This program transcends the normal classroom setting, taking learning to the next level. This year, we plan to go above and beyond to encourage Dreamers. Our valued partnership with Disney Parks and Steve Harvey represents our commitment to the leaders of tomorrow.”
This year’s 100 students were selected from nearly 10,000 applicants who answered a series of essay questions about their personal stories, the people who are most influential in their lives and their dreams for the future.
The 2015 Disney Dreamers Academy judging panel included: Powell, Ebanks, Yolanda Adams, gospel music legend; Mikki Taylor, ESSENCE Magazine editor-at-large; Dr. Steve Perry, education advocate; Sonia Jackson Myles, founder and author of The Sister Accord; Jonathan Sprinkles, award-winning motivational speaker; Dr. Alex O. Ellis, Simply Ellis Custom Clothier CEO; Brandi Harvey, corporate and community relations director for the Steve Harvey World Group; Karli Harvey, hair artesian at U Salon in Atlanta and Princeton Parker, Disney Dreamers Academy alumnus.
This accomplished group, along with Terrence J, actor and host of E! News; Stephen A. Smith, broadcaster and sports analyst and Chef Jeff Henderson, celebrity chef and motivational speaker, remains involved in Disney Dreamers Academy throughout the year, serving members of the Speaker Resource Group, Disney Dreamers Academy’s advisory panel and ambassadors.
For more information, visit www.disneydreamersacademy.com. Regular updates about Disney Dreamers Academy are also available on social media at www.facebook.com/disneydreamersacademy or www.twitter.com/dreamersacademy.
The following students from Alabama have been selected to participate in the 2015 Disney Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey and ESSENCE Magazine*:
Shanesia Abrams of Birmingham, Ala. and Ta’Shara Martinestz of Geneva, Ala
