Disney Dreamers Academy

Greetings!

In March 2025, I had the incredible honor of being selected as one of 100 high school students nationwide to attend the Disney Dreamers Academy at the Walt Disney World Resort. This week-long immersive program is designed to inspire and empower young individuals to pursue their dreams, and it certainly delivered on that promise.

A Magical Beginning

The adventure began with a warm welcome at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, where we were introduced to the program’s mission and our fellow Dreamers. The energy throughout the opening rally was crazy as we embarked on a journey filled with inspiration, learning, and personal growth.

Engaging Workshops and Mentorship

Throughout the academy, we participated in various workshops tailored to our individual interests. From sessions on storytelling and entrepreneurship to hands-on experiences in technology, each activity was designed to broaden our horizons and ignite our passions.

One of the highlights was the opportunity to engage with mentors who are leaders in their respective fields. Their stories of perseverance and success served as powerful reminders that with determination and hard work, our dreams are within reach.

My primary workshop was focused on Technology and Coding. In this workshop, the Dreamers and I were split up into two seperate groups. Each group had a project manager and lead programmer. The project manager would give us an assignment (ours was to create an interactive MagicBand+ experience for those visting Elsa and EPCOT during the Halloween season), and we would work alongside the lead programmer to create it. It was very fun and a deep dive into what my future can look like. 

Unforgettable Experiences

Beyond the workshops, the academy offered unique experiences that made the journey even more memorable. From a special parade down Main Street, U.S.A., to exploring all the Disney parks, each moment was infused with Disney magic. We had opportunities to go on rides (my favorite being Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind) and hang out with our Disney reps. 

Reflecting on the Impact

Attending the Disney Dreamers Academy was more than just a trip - it was a transformative experience that reinforced the importance of dreaming big and being bold. The connections made, lessons learned, and memories created will continue to inspire me as I pursue my goals.

For those aspiring to be part of this life-changing program, I encourage you to apply and embrace the opportunity to grow, learn, and dream without limits. Thank you to every single person who was part of the Disney Dreamers Academy experience. From the Cast Members, to the Reps, to the Dreamers themselves, thank you. 

To learn more about DDA, you can go to their website. If you would like to learn more about the Disney Dreamers Academy from me, find out how to apply, or want tips on how to get in, you can email me at ekam@teamekam.org.