Golden Globe-winning actor Tyler James Williams is no stranger to the spotlight, but last Friday, he used his platform to shine a light on two aspiring young creatives as part of his role as the official “DREAMbassador” for the 2025 Disney Dreamers Academy.
Williams, who plays the fan-favorite Gregory Eddie on ABC’s Emmy Award-winning comedy Abbott Elementary, brought a powerful real-life lesson in mentorship to Walt Disney World Resort. During a surprise appearance, he delivered exciting news to two high school students: Sydney Gilmore, 17, from Arlington, Texas, and Zane Stevenson, 14, from Manvel, Texas, would be joining him on the set of Abbott Elementary in Los Angeles later this year
The once-in-a-lifetime experience will allow Sydney and Zane—both budding filmmakers—to witness an episode being filmed and gain a firsthand look into the world of television production. The surprise left the duo in awe, with Williams sharing words of encouragement and inspiring them to continue chasing their creative dreams.
Meanwhile, Kelvin Harrison Jr., who voices Taka/Scar in the upcoming Disney film Mufasa: The Lion King, made his own magical mark by joining a group of animal science enthusiasts on Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s Kilimanjaro Safaris. The students explored the Harambe Wildlife Reserve, observing over 30 species including giraffes, crocodiles, and flamingos, while learning about wildlife conservation and the importance of animal care in both entertainment and real-world ecosystems.
Now in its 18th year, the Disney Dreamers Academy is a transformational mentoring program that brings 100 high school students from across the country to Walt Disney World Resort for a four-day immersive experience. Supported by sponsors Sprite and Delta Airlines, the academy is dedicated to empowering students from diverse communities to dream big and boldly pursue their goals.
Students are selected from thousands of applicants for this all-expenses-paid opportunity. Along with a parent or guardian, they attend a jam-packed weekend filled with leadership seminars, career-oriented workshops, and intimate mentoring sessions led by community leaders, educators, Disney executives, and celebrity guests.
This year’s Dreamers also had the privilege of learning from Grammy Award-winning artist Adam Blackstone, who served as a magical mentor for the class of 2025. Known for his work as a bassist, musical director, and producer alongside some of the biggest names in music, Blackstone shared his personal journey—starting as a young drummer in his local church to winning his first Grammy for Hell’s Kitchen.
Disney Dreamers Academy continues to be a powerful platform that shows the next generation what’s possible when talent, mentorship, and opportunity align.
Catch new episodes of Abbott Elementary on Wednesdays at 8:30/7:30c on ABC and stream the next day on Hulu.