ORLANDO, Fla. – Youth listened to inspirational speakers and got the chance to experience their future careers on the second day of the Disney Dreamers Academy on Friday at Walt Disney World.
Along with hearing inspirational speeches, Dreamers participated in hands-on workshops in various career fields.
The day started with a “Career EXPOSE” where the students heard from people in various industries, including medical, science, technology, business, media and entertainment. Speakers included astronaut Dr. Sian Proctor, Emmy-award winning music director Adam Blackstone and Aerospace Engineer and Blue Origin Crew Member Aisha Bowe.
Meanwhile, the teens’ parents and guardians attended a session with actors and gospel singers David and Tamala Mann.
“I love to show the next generation about the people that do some of their favorite things that are behind the scenes,” Blackstone told the AmNews. “Sometimes we only get to see the ball player, we only get to see the artist singing on stage, but there’s a lot that goes into those productions. I’m here to inspire the next generation to let them know there is an avenue for all creative dreams.”
Cyril Josh Barker photos
Bowe told the AmNews that she wanted the students to know that it’s not about where they start but where they finish. Bowe is a STEM advocate and entrepreneur. She is the founder and CEO of the technology company STEMBoard. In February, she became part of the crew for Blue Origin’s eleventh flight to space.
“You don’t have to decide to do one thing, you can do all the things,” she said. “I did not have to choose one thing, I can decide to do all the things. When you’re dealing with people who are so talented like the Dreamers, I want them to know they can write, they can act, they can direct. They can do all the things they feel called to do.”
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Video by Cyril Josh Barker
In the afternoon, the teens attended the “Career Quest” session, where they were separated based on their career interests to hear from and network with Disney cast members and other professionals about a vast array of career opportunities.
On Saturday, the Dreamers are participating in an interactive session where they will learn how to communicate their talents. They will also partake in a networking session.
A collection of accomplished professionals will also share lessons with the teens about refining their personal brand and style. Presenters include motivational speaker Lisa Nichols and fashion influencer Jermoe Lamar.
Disclosure: The Walt Disney Company paid for the travel and accommodations for several media outlets, including the AmNews, to cover the Disney Dreamers Academy. Disney did not review or approve any of our coverage.