Florida’s Walt Disney World Resort has recently announced 100 talented high school students who have been selected for 2023’s Disney Dreamers Academy, a mentoring program that runs March 23 – 26.
The 16th annual event aims to broaden career awareness and create exclusive opportunities for Black students and teens from underrepresented communities across the nation.
Each year, the Disney Dreamers are selected from thousands of applicants who answer essay questions about their personal stories and dreams for the future. The students and a parent or guardian enjoy an all-expenses paid trip to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida for the four-day event.
Displayed on a Times Square billboard among various other students was the name Jaden S. Jenkins – a senior at A.R. Johnson Health Science and Engineering Magnet School.
Jenkins is A.R. Johnson’s second year captain on the varsity soccer team, a two-time MVP and a member of the Bulls Elite 05 soccer traveling team. Jenkins plans to continue pursuing soccer while studying electrical engineering in college.
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“I am not surprised that Jaden was selected. I’ve watched him grow into one of the most disciplined and focused student-athletes in our school. I am so proud of him,” said A.R. Johnson’s Athletic Director and varsity soccer Coach Crystal Langston in a press release from Disney.
First established in 2008, past mentors and celebrity participants have included noteworthy, African American figures such as Kelly Rowland, Andre Robinson, Kelly L. Carter, Ralph Farquhar, Mikki Taylor and many others.
“We’re ready to welcome another outstanding group of teens from across the country for our 16th year,” said Tracey Powell, Disney Signature Experiences vice president and Disney Dreamers Academy executive champion. “They are going to have the experience of a lifetime, setting them on a journey to go out and achieve their dreams, just like the classes who came before them.”
Since the program’s start, the academy has inspired more than 1,500 students from all over the country by “fueling their dreams and showing them a world of possibilities as they prepare for their futures.”
The Disney Dreamers will embark on a journey throughout several Walt Disney World theme parks, and behind the scenes of a 40-square-mile vacation destination.
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“It is a vibrant classroom where students discover new career opportunities, pursue their dreams, and interact with Disney executives, educators, business leaders, celebrities and motivational speakers,” said the press release.
Students will participate in immersive, career-oriented workshops that explore a wide range of career disciplines, while also learning essential skills such as: effective communication techniques, leadership and networking strategies.
On Monday, Feb. 13, A.R. Johnson will host a congratulatory celebration for Jenkins at 1 p.m. To view the full list of selected students visit: www.DisneyDreamersAcademy.com
“The Disney Dreamers program is an important part of Disney’s commitment to support diverse communities,” said Disney’s press release. “By encouraging the next generation to think big, Disney hopes the students will carry what they learn back home and continue pursuing their dreams.”
Liz Wright is a staff writer covering education, lifestyle and general assignments for The Augusta Press. Reach her at liz@theaugustapress.com
