Melissa Donovan
Six Orlando-area high school students had the honor of participating in the Disney Dreamers Academy parade at Magic Kingdom, alongside Golden Globe-winning actor Tyler James Williams from ABC’s hit show Abbott Elementary. The celebratory parade, held on March 27, featured 100 students from across the nation, marking the commencement of an inspirational weekend dedicated to mentorship, education, and empowerment.
The Disney Dreamers Academy, now in its 18th year, is running from March 26-30, continuing its mission of guiding young minds toward success. This transformative program provided students from diverse backgrounds with mentorship, career workshops, and networking opportunities with industry leaders and Disney professionals. Through hands-on experiences and motivational sessions, the program aimed to inspire participants to dream big and pursue their aspirations with confidence.
Orlando-Area Students Representing Central Florida
Among the talented students selected for this prestigious program were six from the Orlando area:
- Kylie Fuller – Kissimmee, FL
- Kaylee Pickford – Kissimmee, FL
- Somaya Russell – Orlando, FL
- Kaitlyn Smith – Mt. Dora, FL
- Diongela Theard – Orlando, FL
- Jasmine Thomas – Apopka, FL
These students joined their peers in an immersive experience designed to enhance their leadership skills, ignite their passions, and provide valuable insight into future career paths. With workshops covering fields such as STEM, entrepreneurship, and the arts, the program sought to equip students with the tools necessary for long-term success.
A Star-Studded Parade and Mentorship Opportunity
As honorary grand marshal of the parade, Tyler James Williams brought additional excitement to the event. Known for his inspiring career trajectory and commitment to education, Williams served as a role model for the young dreamers, encouraging them to persevere and embrace their ambitions.
Throughout the four-day academy, students engaged with industry experts, attended interactive sessions, and gained exposure to various career opportunities within Disney and beyond. The program’s ultimate goal was to instill self-confidence, resilience, and the belief that dreams can become reality through dedication and hard work.
Impact of Disney Dreamers Academy
Since its inception, Disney Dreamers Academy has helped shape the futures of more than 1,500 students. Alumni of the program have gone on to achieve remarkable success in their respective fields, attributing their experiences at the academy as a key motivator in their journeys.
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