News Summary
The 2025 Disney Dreamers Academy kicked off in Atlanta, offering 100 high school students from diverse backgrounds a transformative opportunity. Ten students from Atlanta participated in workshops, motivational talks, and a parade, gaining insights from inspiring celebrities. The event emphasized empowerment, mentorship, and the pursuit of dreams, leaving a lasting impact on the young attendees.
Atlanta Students Shine at 2025 Disney Dreamers Academy with Inspiring Experiences and Celebrities
The vibrant city of Atlanta is buzzing with excitement as the 2025 Disney Dreamers Academy kicks off its 18th annual event at the iconic Walt Disney World Resort. This unique mentoring program is on a mission to inspire and empower 100 high school students from diverse backgrounds, offering them a chance to chase their career dreams on a magical 4-day all-expenses-paid trip to Disney World.
This year, among the selected dreamers, a remarkable 10 students from the Atlanta area made the cut. These aspiring leaders include Alonnah Copeland, Owen Osborne, Kylan Robinson, Chasity Rolland, Tiyanna Shaheed, Rihana Tape, Sierra Walker, and Ciara Wimbush.
A Day Filled with Magic and Empowerment
The event opened with a lively welcome rally where participants immersed themselves in a whirlwind of enthusiasm, followed by impactful empowerment sessions. The excitement peaked with a captivating Magic Kingdom Parade, where students shared the experience with beloved characters like Mickey Mouse and Princess Tiana.
This year’s “DREAMbassador”, Tyler James Williams from ABC’s hit series “Abbott Elementary,” engaged students with his own compelling journey, inspiring them to believe in their dreams. The program also featured an array of interactive career workshops, led by celebrities, business executives, and educators, covering various fields including animation, law, journalism, STEM, and film.
Heartfelt Moments and Motivational Speeches
Participants were treated to motivational speeches, including a powerful message from Lisa Nichols. She emphasized that challenges should be viewed as commas, not periods, in the ongoing story of life, which resonated deeply with the students. Emotions ran high during the event, culminating in a heartfelt commencement ceremony that brought many to tears.
Personal Stories of Strength and Resilience
Among the attendees was Kylan Robinson, a freshman from Berkmar High School. He shared his inspiration for joining the academy, aiming to raise awareness about gun violence following the tragic loss of his father. Similarly, senior Ciara Wimbush expressed her shock and excitement at the opportunities presented during the event.
Tiyanna Shaheed articulated her hopes that the academy would help her regain her confidence and better direct her career path. Meanwhile, parents like Chandra Wimbush expressed pride and gratitude for the invaluable experiences their children are gaining through this program.
A Star-Studded Weekend
Other notable celebrities such as H.E.R., Marsai Martin, and Dominique Thorne joined in on the festivities, engaging with the aspiring dreamers and sharing their own experiences and insights. Their participation highlights the importance of diversity and mentorship in empowering underrepresented students to pursue their aspirations with confidence.
The Disney Dreamers Academy continues to stand as a beacon of hope and support for young individuals, guiding them toward fulfilling their dreams and nurturing the leaders of tomorrow.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
New Legislation in Georgia Empowers Student Journalists
Additional Resources
- The Atlanta Voice: Designer of Your Destiny – Disney Dreamers Academy
- News-Journal Online: Disney Dreamers Academy
- Atlanta Daily World: Atlanta Area Teens Selected
- Girls United: Halle Bailey and Disney Dreamers
- Atlanta Daily World: Tyler James Williams Joins Disney Dreamers Academy
- Wikipedia: Disney
- Google Search: Disney Dreamers Academy
- Google Scholar: Disney Dreamers Academy
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Disney
- Google News: Disney Dreamers Academy
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
