Disney is ensuring that the dream isn’t ending due to Covid – 19. 100 teens selected for the 2020 Disney Dreamers Academy will still get to enjoy the experience. Instead of in – person instruction, this year, the event will take place virtually. On top of that, for the first time in history, all 100 participants will be placed in shadow externships at the end of the program.
The virtual program will follow the same structure as past Disney Dreamers Academy events. The dreamers will learn life skills such as networking strategies, effective communication skills, and how to be a leader. They will do so through various means. Some highlights include conference calls, self – paced workshops, and networking opportunities with top industry professionals.
After the conference, each participant will be placed into an externship based on their career goals. This allows them personal insight and advice from mentors that will be valuable to their future. The announcement comes after the in – person Disney Dreamers Academy shortened due to Covid – 19. “We were disappointed to have to cut this year’s event short due to the pandemic, and we knew we had to create something extra special for this outstanding group of high school students,” says Tracy C. Powell, the Disney Dreamers Academy executive champion.
In its 13th year, the Disney Dreamers Academy is part of Walt Disney World’s goal to inspire the next generation. It inspires teens to “Be 100.” This encourages teens to be all in, in all they do. This allows them to pursue their dreams and make a difference in the world. More information can be found about the program here. Good luck to the class of 2020!