Legendary Rap City host and Atlanta DJ Big Tigger made dreams come true at this year’s Disney Dreamers Academy held at Walt Disney World Resort. During the event, 16-year-old aspiring DJ Kyla Marie Griffith from Laurelton, NY, had an unforgettable mentoring moment with Big Tigger himself.
Griffith, who dreams o f becoming a DJ, was given a private meet & greet with Big Tigger, who not only shared his wisdom but also extended a special invitation. The well-seasoned DJ who has appeared on countless stations invited Griffith to assist him in deejaying the event’s final party that night, creating a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the young dreamer.
Griffith is among the 100 teens selected from across the United States to participate in the Disney Dreamers Academy, an initiative that provides them with an all-expense-paid trip to Walt Disney World. The program aims to introduce these young individuals to a range of new opportunities, offering sessions focused on teaching valuable life tools, leadership skills, hands on laboratory projects, and networking strategies.
Through this impactful program, Griffith and her fellow Disney Dreamers are empowered to pursue their dreams and unlock their full potential. Big Tigger’s mentorship exemplifies the spirit of the Disney Dreamers Academy, where dreams are nurtured and aspirations are realized.
CLICK HERE for more info about the Disney Dreamers Academy.
Disney Dreamers Academy 2024: Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders
The magic of dreams coming true unfolded at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida as the Disney Dreamers Academy kicked off its transformative five-day program for high school students from across the nation. This year’s academy, now in its 17th year, welcomed 100 aspiring young leaders, hailing from diverse backgrounds and communities.
Day one of the Disney Dreamers Academy set the stage for an unforgettable journey, filled with workshops, mentorship sessions, and special performances. The dreamers were greeted with a rousing Welcome Celebration hosted by Tracey Powell and Princeton Parker, featuring special guests and musical performances that ignited the spirit of inspiration and empowerment.
As the program unfolded, dreamers delved into a myriad of enriching experiences. Career Academies provided students with invaluable insights into various fields, from culinary arts to entrepreneurship and Imagineering. Renowned figures such as Daymond John from ‘Shark Tank’ and Lanny Smoot from Walt Disney Imagineering shared their wisdom and expertise, empowering students to explore their passions and aspirations.
The first day culminated in a vibrant Magical Kingdom Parade, where dreamers took center stage alongside actress Dara Reneé, serving as the program’s “Dreambassador.” Joined by beloved Disney characters, including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and Princess Tiana, the parade symbolized the celebration of dreams and the boundless possibilities that lie ahead.
Day two of the Disney Dreamers Academy continued to spark creativity and curiosity among participants. From interactive workshops with actor Lance Gross to immersive experiences in puppeteering and artistry, dreamers embarked on a journey of self-discovery and skill-building.
Exploring EPCOT, the dreamers witnessed the magic of innovation and imagination firsthand, while a special dessert party added an extra sprinkle of joy to the evening festivities.
Supported by sponsors AT&T, Sprite, and Delta Airlines, the Disney Dreamers Academy exemplifies Disney’s commitment to fostering diversity, empowerment, and opportunity. Through mentorship, workshops, and inspirational sessions led by celebrities and industry leaders, the academy equips young minds with the tools and confidence to pursue their dreams and make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.
As the 100 dreamers continue their journey at the Disney Dreamers Academy, their experiences serve as a testament to the transformative power of mentorship, education, and the belief in the potential of every young dreamer.
Stay tuned for more updates from the Disney Dreamers Academy as these exceptional young leaders embark on their path to success and fulfillment.
Do you have a dream that reaches beyond the stars? If you’re a teenager in America, there’s still time to seize the opportunity to make your aspirations a reality. But hurry, the clock is ticking! October 31 marks the closing date for applications to Disney Dreamers Academy, a transformative four-day career workshop tailor-made for Black teens and students from underrepresented communities. Last year Little Mermaid star Halle Bailey was the celebrity ambassador as the students learned from The ‘Who’s Who’ in entertainment. QuestLove, DJ Suss-One, Misa Hylton and more graced the classrooms to encourage the future leaders.
For those eager to apply or nominate a deserving student, the process is just a click away. Visit www.DisneyDreamersAcademy.com and set the wheels of your dreams in motion.
Next spring, the chosen participants will have the extraordinary chance to attend immersive workshops across a wide spectrum of fields, guided by renowned celebrities, educators, business leaders, community champions, and Disney cast members. These sessions open doors to diverse career pathways spanning the worlds of business, entertainment, sciences, and more. The program also sheds light on career opportunities within The Walt Disney Company, offering invaluable life skills, leadership capabilities, effective communication techniques, and networking strategies.
Disney Dreamers Academy is at the heart of Disney’s commitment to supporting diverse communities. It strives to nurture the aspirations of the next generation and encourages them to dream bigger than ever. The program equips these young talents with the knowledge and tools they need to chase their dreams relentlessly, all while fostering a spirit of giving back to make a difference in the lives of others.
As Tracey D. Powell, Disney Signature Experiences vice president and the program’s executive champion, aptly puts it, “We’re gearing up to bring the next generation of big dreamers to Walt Disney World for this life-changing program that has been inspiring students across America to reach for their dreams and providing them with some of the tools they need to make those dreams a reality.” So, don’t miss the chance to be part of this inspiring journey.
The application window is open to U.S. high school students, ages 13 to 19. A distinguished panel of leaders will meticulously evaluate the applications, with the selected participants set to be announced in early 2024.
What’s more, the chosen 100 students, along with one parent or guardian each, will be treated to an all-expenses-paid trip to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. It’s an opportunity to experience the perfect blend of inspiration, education, and pure fun in “The Most Magical Place on Earth.”
Walt Disney World Resort made a special appearance at the ESSENCE Festival of Culture to announce the opening of applications and nominations for the 2024 Disney Dreamers Academy. Gospel singing star Pastor Mike Jr., joined Disney executive Tracey D. Powell and motivational speaker/former dreamer– Princeton Parker during the announcement at the Essence stage in front of thousands of spectators to announce the life-changing program.
Disney Dreamers Academy Application Announcement
The Disney Dreamers Academy is an epic four-day annual event held in March to enlighten and cultivate students at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. The program is designed to broaden career and personal development for 100 teens from Black and underrepresented communities across America.
Students looking to achieve their dreams can apply and, for the first time this year, be nominated for the program at www.DisneyDreamersAcademy.com. The application process opens Monday and runs through October. The 100 selected students will receive an all-expense-paid trip along with one parent or guardian to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida to experience a combination of inspiration, education and fun at The Most Magical Place on Earth.
“We’re seeking the next generation of big dreamers to bring to Walt Disney World for the 17th year of this life-changing program,” said Disney Signature Experiences vice president Tracey D. Powell, who is also the program’s executive champion. “Any teen in your life who aspires to achieve their goals should apply. You never know where it could take them!”
Pastor Mike Jr., dubbed “The New King of Urban Inspiration,” is an 11-time Stellar Award Gospel Artist, best known for his songs “I Got It” and “So Good”. As one of several celebrity speakers who took part in last year’s Disney Dreamers Academy, he motivated the students through his inspiring storytelling and musical performance.
“Inspiring others is my passion, and it is also the core of Disney Dreamers Academy, which is why I’m so proud to affiliate myself with this program,” said Pastor Mike Jr. “I’ve seen how passionate these students are and I would encourage all students to apply or nominate a fellow Disney Dreamer for this once-in-a-lifetime transformative event.”
Pastor Mike Jr., Tracey D. Powell and Princeton Parker
The impactful Disney program introduces the teens to an array of new opportunities, such as sessions teaching valuable life tools, leadership skills, effective communication techniques and networking strategies.
Students attend in-depth workshops in a variety of disciplines aligned with their dreams. These workshops introduce the Disney Dreamers to diverse career paths within business, entertainment, and sciences, including career opportunities within The Walt Disney Company.
Halle Bailey Surprises Students at Disney Dreamers Academy
In her role as Disney Dreamers Academy Ambassador, actor and singer Halle Bailey, who plays the lead role as Ariel in the live-action remake of Disney’s “The Little Mermaid,” was part of many special moments during this year’s event, sharing her own personal struggles and lessons on her path to success. She also personally hosted two aspiring filmmakers from the class at the world premiere of “The Little Mermaid.”
Over the years, Disney Dreamers Academy has inspired more than 1,500 students from across the country. Each year, graduates have gone on to become doctors, engineers, performing artists, entrepreneurs, Disney Cast Members and more, and some have transitioned into mentors to the Disney Dreamers who followed them.
The Disney Dreamers Academy program is an important part of Disney’s commitment to supporting diverse communities by encouraging the next generation to think big and to use what they learn in their relentless pursuit of their dreams in hopes of making a difference in the lives of others.
The intricately talented musician H.E.R.—one of the fastest rising young stars has labeled her favorite rapper –of all time. H.E.R. crowned Q-Tip the Abstract of the infamous group A Tribe Called Quest her number one emcee.
Q-Tip of A Tribe Called Quest
Currently showcasing an immense creativity holding an Academy Award, an Emmy and five Grammys, she has also recently launched her acting career, starring as Belle in the recent ABC special Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration. She will join the all-star cast of “The Color Purple” musical film adaptation as “Squeak” later this year.
H.E.R. at Disney Dreamers Academy 20023
H.E.R. recently lended her time to inspire 100 students from around the world at Disney Dreamers Academy 20023 and surprised three teens pursuing music with an autographed guitar.
H.E.R. Surprises Disney Dreamers Academy Students
The Source Magazine caught up with the singer/songwriter and asked her what artist she relates to the most. In true fashion of someone with an old soul, the 25-year old instrumentalist revealed more.
“I don’t know who I relate to the most, but one of my favorite rappers of all time is Q-Tip…. I actually got to meet him one time and he put me onto so much music. And I didn’t realize how much music he was inspired by outside of hip hop. He to me just focuses on having fun with the music and making people feel something without kind of trying.Just kind of being him.”
Grammy-Nominated Performer, Halle Bailey is the newest celebrity ambassador lending her time and expertise to mentor 100 kids in this year’s 2023 Disney Dreamers Academy.
Disney Dreamers Academy pulled out all of the stops to cultivate the dreams of 100 bright and intelligent high school students across America. The star-studded 4-Day event began with a parade at Magic Kingdom Park featuring Disney Dreamers Academy celebrity ambassador, Halle Bailey, Disney executive Tracey D. Powell and Disney Princess Tiana.
Halle Bailey, Disney Exec Tracey D. Powell and Princess Tiana at Magic Kingdom
The one-of-a-kind program is designed to broaden students’ career awareness and create opportunities, mentor through workshops and uplift their confidence to prepare them for the future. The 100 students, along with a parent or guardian, receive an all-expense-paid trip to Walt Disney World to participate in the program.
Halle, who will play the iconic role of Ariel in the upcoming remake of Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” hosted the students all weekend spending time in the park and gave the most endearing commencement speech sharing her experience with naysayers and self-doubt.
“I found out that how you handle a rough patch says so much about not just where you are but where you plan to be. When I landed the role of Ariel, I was happy…shocked, excited— a host of feelings. What came next was… I assumed that everyone else in the world would feel what I was feeling. And arguably looking back there were probably a lot more rooting for me than against me. But the naysayers, those that were negative were loud. Very loud.”
She revealed, “For the first time in my life there was negativity targeted deliberately toards me because I looked different than the original character. There were days that I thought, no one wants me to win. But here is how I coped. ‘Who are you?’ I asked myself, whether someone is supportive or not, do you know who you are? Did I accept this role for all good things? Do I see it as a blessing? Did Rob Marshall, the films’ director, make the right decision in casting me? In making a historic casting for an iconic role? And all those answers were yes and those yeses started drowning out the no’s that were trying to shake me. And in the end the loudest voice in your head should be yours. Simple but effective. ‘Who am I?’ I am Halle Bailey and I am a winner and a dreamer.”
Bailey is one of several Hollywood stars who participated in the annual mentoring program by Walt Disney World Resort. Some of the other celebrities included R&B singing sensation H.E.R.,actor/producer Marsai Martin (ABC show “black-ish”), and Jalyn Hall (feature film “Till’’).
“If it wasn’t for my mentors, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” Bailey said. “I’m excited to work with these students and be a mentor for them as they find their passions in life.”
“Disney Dreamers Academy is an important part of Walt Disney World’s commitment to supporting Black students and teens from underrepresented communities across America, by encouraging the next generation to think big and to carry what they learn back home with them,” said Tracey D. Powell, Vice President of Travel Services/Pricing and Revenue Management and Disney Dreamers Academy executive champion. “We hope to encourage these dreamers to relentlessly pursue their dreams and make a difference in the lives of others.”
Disney Dreamers Academy is opening doors with their mentoring program that fosters the dreams of african-american students from underrepresented communities. Ushering hard working students to their goals, Disney Dreamers Academy creates an opportunity of a lifetime for exemplary students.
A budding artist, an aspiring neurosurgeon and a creative storyteller are among the 100 high school students selected for this year’s Disney Dreamers Academy, an educational mentoring program hosted by Walt Disney World. Kelly Rowland surprised one of the students with the news of her selection live on national TV from her school in Newark, N. J. Afterwards, the names of the entire Class of 2023 were displayed on a Times Square billboard.
Disney Dreamers Academy Class of 2023 announcement
Rowland, the four-time Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, actress and television executive producer, served last year as the program’s ambassador and as an advocate for the students. She shared personal insights, drawing from her own unique experience as a pre-teen performer, then as a teenager in one of the best-selling female groups of all time, Destiny’s Child.
Surrounded by her mother, her entire school amid a sea of confetti, Mosope Aina, an aspiring neurosurgeon, was surprised by Mickey Mouse and Disney Dreamers Academy executive champion Tracey Powell on national TV at her school in Newark, N.J. with the news of her selection to Disney Dreamers Academy at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida.
Aspiring Neurosurgeon + High school student Mosope Aina
The 100 students from across the country will descend on Walt Disney World Resort March 23-26 for the 16th annual event, aimed at broadening career awareness and creating exclusive opportunities for Black students and teens from underrepresented communities across America.
Since 2008, Disney Dreamers Academy has inspired more than 1,500 students from across the country by fueling their dreams and showing them a world of possibilities as they prepare for their futures. In the years following, graduates have become storytellers, artists, engineers, innovators, journalists and more, and have transitioned into mentors to the Disney Dreamers who follow them.
“We’re ready to welcome another outstanding group of teens from across the country for our 16th year!” said Tracey Powell. “They are going to have the experience of a lifetime, setting them on a journey to go out and achieve their dreams, just like the classes who came before them.”
Each year, the Disney Dreamers are selected from thousands of applicants who answer essay questions about their personal stories and dreams for the future. The students and a parent or guardian enjoy an all-expenses paid trip to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida for the four-day event.
