Disney Dreamers Academy: Commencement day

Commencement day for the graduates of Disney Dreamers Academy was full of laughter, tears of joy and excitement as 100 Dreamers were armed with knowledge that to take back to their communities. Steve Harvey, Essence magazine’s Michelle Ebanks and a host of special guests gave the students an experience they will never forget. The Dreamers were motivated, inspired and touched that an event of this magnitude could make such a difference in their lives.

The Green team won the social media challenge for the weekend, posting photos of their experience at DDA2015 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Posing for the final photo, many of the Dreamers seemed filled with mixed emotions; sad they are leaving, some found friends and mentors for life and others were excited to make an even bigger difference in their communities.

The parents gave their Dreamers a ring to make the commencement official, and it was evident from the expressions on their faces how proud the parents and children were of each other, like the pair depicted above. Hats off and congrats to the 100 Dreamers who were chosen. The message throughout the entire four days was to continue to dream because dreams do come true! Check out more photos in the gallery.

Photos by Joi Pearson Photography and Todd Anderson