April 8th 2024.
The Disney Dreamers Academy at Walt Disney World Resort was truly a magical experience for all who attended, but for one young entrepreneur, it was a dream come true. During a media interview, Shark Tank investor Daymond John made a surprise appearance and extended a life-changing invitation to 16-year-old Te’Lario Watkins II from Blacklick, Ohio. With a personalized invitation, John invited Watkins to join him on the set for a taping of Shark Tank. It was a moment that Watkins will never forget, as it marked the realization of a cherished dream.
Watkins was overwhelmed with emotions during his interview at Disney Dreamers Academy. He expressed his excitement and gratitude, saying, “I’m extremely excited for the opportunity, I’m amazed, and I’m very happy. There are just so many emotions, I can’t put them all into words.” This was a dream come true for Watkins, who has been an ambitious entrepreneur since the age of 7. He started his own business, Tiger Mushroom Farms, which focuses on cultivating gourmet mushrooms and offering dry mushroom products. He also founded the Garden Club Project, a nonprofit organization that aims to combat food insecurities in his community. His entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to making a positive impact have earned him admiration and acclaim, making him an inspiration for young leaders across the nation.
John’s surprise visit and heartfelt invitation perfectly embody the essence of Disney Dreamers Academy. This transformative mentoring program, hosted annually at Walt Disney World Resort, provides a platform for 100 Black high school students and teens from underrepresented communities to explore career pathways, develop leadership skills, and connect with influential mentors and industry leaders. Supported by sponsors like AT&T, Sprite, and Delta Airlines, this immersive five-day event has been making a difference for 17 years and counting.
John, along with other luminaries such as Olympian Sanya Richards-Ross, Hollywood veteran Lance Gross, and Disney actress Dara Renee, impart invaluable wisdom and guidance through workshops, seminars, and presentations. Their presence and mentorship empower participants to pursue their passions with confidence and conviction. As the curtain rises on another chapter of Disney Dreamers Academy, the legacy of inspiration and empowerment continues to flourish. For Te’Lario Watkins II and his fellow dreamers, this is just the beginning of their journey towards realizing their full potential, fueled by the transformative power of mentorship, perseverance, and boundless imagination.
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