LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (March 27, 2025) – The 18th annual Disney Dreamers Academy officially kicked off with a vibrant parade through the Magic Kingdom, featuring 100 high school students from across the United States, including ten from the Atlanta area and several from Orlando and Charlotte. This year’s event, marked by the presence of Golden Globe-winning actor Tyler James Williams, who served as the event's official "DREAMbassador," aims to inspire and empower students to pursue their dreams.
On Thursday, March 27, the students took to the streets of the Magic Kingdom, riding alongside beloved Disney characters like Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and Princess Tiana. The parade not only celebrated the students' achievements but also marked the beginning of a five-day transformational mentoring program designed to help young individuals identify and pursue their aspirations.
Throughout the event, students will engage in interactive workshops and sessions with celebrities, business executives, entertainers, and educators. These activities are crafted to provide mentorship and foster connections that can help students realize their potential. "It’s truly allowing those students to know that they can do anything," said Walt Disney World Ambassador Shannon Smith-Conrad.
Finn Sullivan, a senior from Collingswood, New Jersey, expressed his excitement about being selected for the program. "At first, I never thought I’d be chosen for this opportunity, but when I was, I was like so excited," he said, reflecting on his experience in the parade.
In total, more than 1,700 kids have participated in Disney Dreamers Academy since its inception, with this year's class representing a diverse array of backgrounds and communities. Students like Alonnah Copeland from Fayetteville and Mason B. from Fort Mill are among those selected from thousands of applicants nationwide.
The program not only provides an all-expense-paid trip to Walt Disney World but also emphasizes the importance of community engagement. Participants are encouraged to take the lessons learned during their time at Disney back to their own communities, helping to inspire others.
Tyler James Williams, known for his role in the hit show "Abbott Elementary," shared his insights with the students during the event. He emphasized the significance of perseverance and authenticity, stating, "Keep bringing who you are. Keep doing what you love." His words resonated with many students, including those who aspire to careers in education and the arts.
Kaitlyn Smith, a participant from Mount Dora, shared how her mother encouraged her to apply for the Dreamers Academy, leading to a life-changing experience. "I got involved with the Dreamers Academy through my mom, who actually learned about it and sent it to me," she said. "It was a great decision."
Another student, Kaylee Pickford from Kissimmee, recounted the moment she learned she had been selected. "I like cried," she recalled, describing how her mother woke her up to share the news. "I was like, what’s the mail for? She was like, it’s from the Disney Dreamers Academy, and I got up, and I cried when I read, 'We’re pleased to inform you that you got in.'"
The Disney Dreamers Academy is open to U.S. high school students aged 13 to 19, and the application process opens every summer. This year’s program is particularly special as it celebrates its 18th anniversary, continuing a legacy of inspiring young dreamers.
As the students embark on this journey, they are reminded that the magic of Disney extends beyond the parks and into their own lives. "Today you are a dreamer," Smith-Conrad told the students, "but tomorrow you could be a leader, and that’s what it’s all about." The program aims to not only foster individual growth but also to instill a sense of responsibility and community among the participants.
After the parade, students enjoyed a ride on Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, further immersing themselves in the enchanting world of Disney. The excitement of the day was palpable as students cheered and celebrated their achievements, embracing the theme of the event, "Be 100," which encourages them to fully engage with their dreams.
As the Disney Dreamers Academy unfolds over the next few days, participants will have the opportunity to learn from industry leaders and gain insights that could shape their futures. The event stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration, reminding young dreamers that with dedication, their aspirations are within reach.
With a commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders, Disney Dreamers Academy continues to foster an environment where dreams can flourish, encouraging students to not only dream big but to take actionable steps toward making those dreams a reality.
The Disney Dreamers Academy is a testament to the power of mentorship and the importance of community, making it a truly magical experience for all involved.
