https://madamenoire.com/1067100/disney-dreamers-academy-2019/

Source: Disney Dreamers Academy / Courtesy of Disney

The Disney Dreamers’ Academy is an annual weekend held in Orlando, FL by Steve Harvey and Essence Magazine in conjunction with Disney. Each year, 100 students and one chaperone of their choice are flown to Orlando for a weekend of motivation and upliftment. With a series of speakers, activities, and surrounded by the magic of Disney, students are encouraged to dream and learn that anything can happen (and often does). The program is diverse, not discriminating against race or gender. The weekend is full: students dive into their interests, network with individuals at the top of their field, and are poured into by everyone from Ruth E. Carter, Lisa Nichols to Brandi Harvey. Applications for 2020 are open and I strongly suggest if you have a high schooler or know a high schooler, that you have them apply to this dynamic program.

If you’re trying to raise a dreamer and want to know what it takes, keep reading. I took the opportunity to speak with 5 young Black women who shared what their parents and caretakers have done to keep them motivated and engaged.