Last week, if you were looking for evidence that dreams can actually become reality, Disney Dreamers Academy at Walt Disney World Resort was the spot to be!  The Disney Dreamers Academy truly made magic happen for 100 selected youth.  As you may have followed along on our posts, we were on hand to experience this amazing event.

A standout moment featured two aspiring filmmakers, Sydney Gilmore and Zane Stevenson, who received an incredible surprise. They’re off to California for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at ABC’s popular show Abbott Elementary. They’ll witness the magic of television firsthand and learn from the experts in the field. And the best part? The exciting news was shared by none other than Tyler James Williams, a star of Abbott Elementary!

At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, some of the Dreamers experienced even more enchantment during a safari ride. Imagine this: a bunch of teens passionate about animal science, exploring the Harambe Wildlife Reserve and encountering giraffes, crocodiles, and flamingos up close. Now, throw in a Hollywood celebrity—not just any celebrity, but Kelvin Harrison Jr., the voice behind Taka/Scar in Disney’s Mufasa: The Lion King. It’s pretty wild to have someone who voices a character from a movie about a safari guiding these students on a real-life adventure. What a perfect full-circle moment!

For those unsure, the Disney Dreamers Academy is a five day mentoring program at Walt Disney World where 100 students were selected, out of tens of thousands who applied, to get inspired, motivated and encouraged by different mentors to give them the motivation to keep chasing their dreams.   At the end of the weekend on Sunday, there was a commencement ceremony and celebration for all the Dreamers which included a class ring presentation.

During the commencement ceremony, the Dreamer of the Year was announced, Colin Sproles! Chosen by his fellow Disney Dreamers and judges, he earned the top honor for his leadership, kindness and fearless dream-chasing. Not only did Colin receive the top honor, but he will also be flown back to Walt Disney World with his family for a magical vacation as well as a sailing on a Disney Cruise Ship.

Some other attendees will also receive amazing experiences thanks to the Disney Dreamers Academy.  Alex Onwuli will head to Washington, D.C., for an educational trip with National Geographic. Tristan Williams will experience weightlessness in the Zero-G Astronaut Experience and Charlie Arnold will continue the journey of being a filmmaker with a private tour of Dolby Studios in Hollywood, California.

This event is amazing and so thankful to have been able to attend and cover this event.  I honestly can’t wait to be there for the 2026 Disney Dreamers Academy!!

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