When 14-year-old Angel W. from Murphy, Texas, dreams of the future, she envisions more than just structures—she sees communities transformed through accessible housing. As a freshman at Wylie High School, Angel’s passion for architecture is matched by her commitment to service. Serving as the Teen Community Service Chair for her local chapter of Jack and Jill of America Inc., she actively contributes to initiatives aimed at supporting those less fortunate. Angel’s dream is to design affordable housing solutions, ensuring that everyone has a place to call home.
Similarly, Jessica N., a senior from Paterson, New Jersey, is dedicated to creating educational opportunities for underserved students. She founded STARS NJ, an organization that has mobilized over 40 volunteers across more than 15 states, delivering upwards of 200 hours of tutoring annually. Jessica also established the Menstrual Equity Advocates club in her city and serves as a global advisor for WeDeliverPeriod, demonstrating her commitment to addressing critical social issues. Her aspirations include becoming the first politician in her family, aiming to effect systemic change through public service.
Angel and Jessica are among the 100 exceptional high school students selected for the 2025 Disney Dreamers Academy, a program dedicated to nurturing the ambitions of young individuals from diverse backgrounds. Over a transformative four-day experience at Walt Disney World Resort, these students engage in immersive workshops, connect with industry leaders, and gain invaluable leadership skills to propel their future endeavors.
In this blog post, we’ll delve into the journey of the Disney Dreamers Academy, exploring its mission, the application process, program components, and the profound impact it has on its participants. Whether you’re an aspiring Dreamer or simply curious about this life-changing initiative, read on to discover how the academy is turning dreams into reality.
YOU or someone you know could be the next Dreamer!
What Is the Disney Dreamers Academy?
Since its inception in 2008, the Disney Dreamers Academy has been a transformative force, empowering over 1,700 high school students across the United States to turn their dreams into reality. Over four days expenses-paid trip, selected high school students take part in a multi-day program held annually at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. The immersive program offers participants affectionately known as “Dreamers” a unique blend of in-depth workshops, mentorship, and career workshops through hands-on learning.
Students also meet industry leaders and celebrity guests. In 2025, the Academy welcomed mentors like actor Tyler James Williams, Grammy winners Tamela Mann and Adam Blackstone, comedian and radio host Rickey Smiley, and members of the soft-rock group Infinity Song. Disney executives, engineers, designers, and entertainers also joined to inspire the next future leaders.
A Legacy of Milestones and Achievements
Over the years, the Disney Dreamers Academy has celebrated numerous milestones that underscore its commitment to nurturing young talent:
- 2008: The inaugural class of Dreamers embarked on their journey, marking the beginning of a legacy dedicated to inspiring youth.
- 2011: The program expanded its reach by partnering with influential figures and organizations, enhancing the breadth of mentorship and resources available to students.
- 2017: Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the academy reflected on a decade of success stories, with alumni progressing into roles as doctors, engineers, artists, and more, many returning as mentors to new Dreamers.
Collaborations That Inspire
Central to the academy’s mission is its collaboration with esteemed partners like Steve Harvey and ESSENCE Magazine. Steve Harvey, renowned comedian and television host, has been instrumental since the program’s early days, bringing his passion for mentorship to the forefront. His involvement stems from a deep-seated belief in guiding the next generation, a commitment evident through his own mentoring initiatives.
ESSENCE Magazine, a leading publication celebrating African American culture, joined forces with Disney to further amplify the program’s impact. This partnership underscores a shared dedication to empowering young individuals, particularly from underrepresented communities, by providing platforms that celebrate their aspirations and achievements.
Through these collaborations, the Disney Dreamers Academy continues to embody the spirit of dreaming big, offering students unparalleled opportunities to learn, grow, and transform their ambitions into tangible successes.
Who Can Dream? Eligibility and How to Apply
Embarking on the transformative journey offered by the Disney Dreamers Academy begins with understanding the eligibility criteria and mastering the application process. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help aspiring Dreamers navigate their path to this life-changing experience.
Who Can Apply?
The Disney Dreamers Academy seeks dynamic individuals who embody creativity, compassion, and a relentless pursuit of their dreams. To be eligible, applicants must:
- Age and Grade Level: Be U.S. high school students aged 13 to 19, enrolled in grades 9 through 12 at the time of the event.
- Residency: Reside in the 48 contiguous United States or the District of Columbia.
Prior attendees of the Disney Dreamers Academy are not eligible to reapply, ensuring new students have the opportunity to benefit from the program.
The application for 2026 Disney Dreamer Academy is now open and future applicants can apply HERE!
Angel W.
What Does the Selection Committee Seek?
The selection committee is on the lookout for students who possess a unique blend of attributes:
- A genuine love for learning and creativity.
- A caring nature towards others.
- The ability to face challenges with poise and maturity.
- An optimistic perspective and a generous spirit.
- A hopeful and proactive attitude towards upcoming endeavors.
Crafting a Compelling Application
Your application is your canvas to paint a vivid picture of who you are and the dreams you aspire to achieve. Here are some tips to make your application stand out:
- Share your genuine story. The committee values sincerity and wants to understand the real you.
- Clearly articulate your dreams, incredible accomplishments, and the steps you’ve taken towards achieving them.
- Discuss challenges you’ve faced and how they’ve shaped your character and determination.
- Before submitting, have mentors, teachers, or family members review your application to provide constructive feedback.
Remember, the application process is not just about showcasing achievements but also about illustrating your potential, sharing your unique story, and the impact you wish to make in the world.
The Dreamer Experience: What Happens at the Academy
The Disney Dreamers Academy offers a transformative four-day experience designed to inspire and empower high school students by immersing them in a series of dynamic workshops, seminars, and unique Disney experiences.
Engaging Workshops and Seminars
Participants, known as “Dreamers,” engage in interactive sessions that cover a wide array of topics aimed at personal and professional development. Key areas of focus include:
- Leadership Development: Workshops are designed to cultivate essential leadership qualities, encouraging students to lead with confidence and integrity.
- Effective Communication: Seminars emphasize the importance of articulating ideas clearly and listening actively, skills that are vital in any career path.
- Networking Strategies: Sessions provide practical guidance on building and maintaining professional relationships, teaching Dreamers how to connect with mentors and peers effectively.
Exclusive Disney Experiences
Beyond the workshops, Dreamers are treated to behind-the-scenes tours that unveil the magic behind Disney’s renowned operations. These experiences may include:
- Students have the opportunity to interact with the creative minds behind Disney’s attractions, gaining firsthand knowledge about innovation and storytelling.
- Dreamers delve into various career fields within Disney, discovering the diverse opportunities that exist within the company.
Family Inclusion for Holistic Support
Recognizing the pivotal role of family support in a student’s journey, the Disney Dreamers Academy invites each participant to bring a parent or guardian. This inclusive approach ensures that families are part of the transformative experience. Parents and guardians benefit from:
- Tailored sessions featuring motivational speakers and educators who provide insights on supporting their Dreamers’ aspirations.
- Opportunities to explore Disney parks and participate in select events alongside their students, fostering a shared sense of inspiration and growth.
By integrating comprehensive workshops, exclusive Disney insights, and family involvement, the Disney Dreamers Academy creates an environment where young individuals are equipped with the tools, knowledge, and support to turn their dreams into reality.
Beyond the Event: Real Benefits That Last a Lifetime
Attending the Disney Dreamers Academy offers high school students a transformative experience that extends well beyond the four-day event at Walt Disney World Resort. Participants gain invaluable skills, mentorship, and opportunities that pave the way for future success.
Alumni Success Stories
The impact of the Disney Dreamers Academy is evident in the achievements of its alumni:
- Te’Lario Watkins: An alumnus who aspires to end food insecurity, Te’Lario was paired with Daymond John, star of ABC’s “Shark Tank,” for mentorship. This connection highlights the program’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurial spirit and social responsibility among its participants.
- Khushi Talluru: A 15-year-old aspiring doctor from Lakewood Ranch High School, Khushi’s participation in the academy provided her with exposure to inspirational stories and leadership workshops, reinforcing her dedication to pursuing a medical career.
Long-Term Skill Development
The academy places a strong emphasis on equipping students with practical skills that are essential in the professional world:
- Participants engage with business leaders, Disney executives, celebrities, and educators, learning effective networking strategies that open doors to future opportunities.
- Workshops on dressing for success and effective communication prepare students to present themselves confidently in various professional settings.
Scholarship Opportunities and Mentorship Programs
While the Disney Dreamers Academy itself is an all-expenses-paid experience valued at $4,355 , providing significant financial support to attendees, the program does not directly offer additional scholarships. However, the mentorship and exposure gained during the academy often lead participants to other scholarship opportunities and programs. Moreover, the relationships built during the academy frequently evolve into ongoing mentorship connections, offering guidance and support as students navigate their educational and career paths.
This year I had the honor of being part of this experience. That’s why I’m excited to share it with you. The Disney Dreamers Academy had a huge impact on me as an attendee. It inspired me to dream bigger and live in my true purpose. The Disney Dreamers Academy stands as a beacon of inspiration. The program helps turn ambitious high school students into proactive achievers. By immersing participants in mentorship, skill-building workshops, and real networking opportunities, the Academy gives young people the tools they need to pursue and live out their dreams.
This journey mirrors the path of Walt Disney himself. A visionary who turned his ideas into a global empire. His story proves that with hard work, vision, and perseverance, dreams really can become reality.
If you feel inspired to start your own life-changing adventure, visit the official Disney Dreamers Academy website. You’ll find the latest details on program dates, eligibility, and how to apply.
Every big achievement starts with a dream!
