The Disney Dreamers Academy is about to make 100 teenagers very happy. The Academy is currently accepting applications for its mentoring program, which includes an all-expenses-paid trip to Disney World.
Disney Dreamers Academy, in partnership with Steve Harvey and Essence Magazine, hosts a four-day event for high schoolers ages 13 to 19 who are passionate about pursuing their dreams and hold a deep love of learning and intellectual curiosity. Dreamers will attend presentations by motivational speakers, community and business leaders, and celebrities, while participating in professional workshops spanning multiple industries such as journalism, law, business and medicine. Speakers include Steve Harvey, Stephen A. Smith (ESPN), Mikki Taylor (Editor-at-large, Essence Magazine), Dr. Steve Perry, and Chef Jeff Henderson.
In addition, teens get to develop important business and communication skills, such as interviewing and networking.
Disney Dreamers Academy was created in 2008 as a way to help teens reach their academic and professional goals by providing them the tools and experiences not easily come by. Basically, it gives kids the push they need to realize that they can accomplish many things, no matter their background, financial situation, or home life. Those who are hard-working, passionate, career-minded and focused are encouraged to apply for the mentorship. Past dreamers have gone on to have careers in engineering, journalism, medicine, politics, and public relations.
Teens who are selected for the program will be joined by one parent or guardian, who will also receive an all-expenses-paid trip. While the age requirements cover the entire teenage years, applicants must be enrolled in grades 9-12 and be residents of the United States.
It’s not all work, though. Dreamers will be able to explore the theme park and take behind-the-scenes tours during their free time.
The Disney Dreamers Academy program runs March 21-24, 2019. Applications for the class of 2019 are due by October 31, 2018.
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