Detroiters Invited To Disney Resort As Part Of Disney Dreamers

DETROIT (CW50) One hundred lucky teens -- including four from Michigan -- will be whisked to Walt Disney World Resort as part of the Disney Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey and Essence Magazine.

This year's Dreamers were selected from among more than 5,000 applicants by a panel of judges representing the best in their fields that included Powell, Harvey and Ebanks. Applicants answered a series of essay questions about their personal stories and life dreams.

Michigan's winners were: Faith Boone of Novi; Tiara Clark of Detroit; Kayla Noel of Pontiac; and DeShone Valley of  Saginaw.

The teens, along with a parent or guardian, received an all-expense-paid trip to the Walt Disney World Resort March 7-10, but they won't be vacationing. Instead, they will participate in a once-in-lifetime innovative outside-the-classroom educational and mentoring program.

"It's got to be an awfully gratifying feeling because of the thousands and thousands of applicants and you were one of the 100 that were chosen," said Steve Harvey, host of the 'Steve Harvey Show" on CW 50, in a video greeting to the winners. "It's gotta be a special feeling and I don't want you to take it for granted in any way."

Entering its sixth year, Disney Dreamers Academy continues to hold true to its mission to inspire and fuel the dreams of teens, help them discover a world of possibilities and help them prepare for the future. Each year, 100 students participate in hands-on, full-immersion workshops related to a bevy of career paths ranging from animation to zoology. Each participant learns important skills such as communication techniques and networking strategies.

It all takes place in a magical setting: The Walt Disney World theme parks. Both on stage and behind the scenes, the parks become vibrant 'classrooms' leading to career discoveries, the pursuit of dreams and fun memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Motivational speakers and celebrities share their stories and provide insight on how to achieve success and "DREAM BIG." Dreamers have the opportunity to cultivate relationships with other students from across the nation while they gain first-hand knowledge from Disney experts and world-renowned entrepreneurs and executives.

"Over the past five years, we have helped 500 Dreamers unlock their potential and get started on their journeys in life," said Disney Dreamers Academy Executive Champion Tracey D. Powell. "The sixth Disney Dreamers Academy marks another year of continued motivation, education and success. Steve Harvey and Essence Communications share in our vision of enriching lives. Everyone leaves this program inspired to live their best life."

For more information visit www.disneysdreamersacademy.com, www.facebook.com/disneysdreamersacademy or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/dreamersacademy.

To read the interview with some of the Detroit area Disney Dreamers click here!