Disney flies 100 teens to dream-chasing mentorship weekend

One hundred high schoolers from across the country just got the mentorship experience of a lifetime, and it happened at the happiest place on Earth.

Disney World hosted its 19th annual Dreamers Academy in late March, flying in teens and their parents for a jam-packed weekend of workshops, celebrity mentorship, and yes, some serious fun at the parks. Handpicked from thousands of applicants, these 10th through 12th graders aren't just dreamers. They're already doers.

Take Angel Ajish-Yohann, who serves as student president of Friendship Circle Life Town, volunteers at her local pediatric hospital, and recently earned her EMT license. Or Ngoc Ho from Houston, a student activist who organizes advocacy days and serves as communications director for Alief Votes while planning a career in international relations.

The weekend brought these ambitious students face-to-face with celebrities who shared honest advice about handling disappointment. WNBA superstar A'ja Wilson surprised basketball fans with a ride on Tiana's Bayou Adventure before dropping some wisdom about setbacks.

"Sometimes it's exactly what it needs to be," Wilson told the students. "Even though it feels uncomfortable, you gotta go through it to grow through it."

Descendants star Malia Baker, serving as a Disney Dreambassador, emphasized the power of community when facing challenges. "Having a community that you love and can also remind you of who you are keeps you sane in this world," she shared.

The teens participated in skits, roundtables, and creative projects throughout the weekend. Dance Mom alum Nia Sioux helped students flex their video production skills while sharing her own journey.

The Ripple Effect

This program does more than create magical memories. It opens doors through scholarships and internship opportunities in students' areas of interest, giving them real pathways to their goals.

Micah Dixon, headed to Morehouse College to study political science on a prelaw track, used the weekend to network with industry professionals. His message to others feeling stuck? "Don't let your current situation impact your future situation."

These 100 students returned home with more than Instagram photos and autographs. They left with mentorship connections, career insights, and proof that their big dreams deserve big support.