In the conclusion of our “Chasing Dreams” series, we are excited to spotlight three true game changers and mentors who recently participated in the 2020 Disney Dreamers Academy Virtual Program Series.
This exciting inaugural program was inspired by Disney’s traditional in-person event which brings select high school students from across the United States to Walt Disney World Resort for an immersive learning experience complete with events, entertainment and presentations by Disney leaders, other business professionals and celebrities.
Design and fashion have always been popular career choices for students participating in Disney Dreamers Academy. Over the years, teens with an interest in fashion have had the chance to design their own costumes and outfits, work with professional costume designers and learn from some of Disney’s best. This past year, we took the session to another level by bringing together – virtually – three generations of fashion industry trailblazers to share their journeys with the Class of 2020. And when we say top fashion trailblazers, we mean it. These are the masterminds behind the looks for THE trendsetters: Beyoncé and Mary J. Blige just to name a few!
Kelley Carter of ESPN’s “The Undefeated” interviewed stylists and fashion designers Dapper Dan, Misa Hylton and Jerome Lamaar. Dapper Dan helped set the fashion of the 70s and 80s, styling celebrities such as LL Cool J and Salt-N-Pepa, and remains a top industry icon today with his popular Gucci line. Misa has been styling top celebrities since the 90s, including Sean “P. Diddy” Coombs, Missy Elliott and many more. Jerome is one of the fastest-rising names in the style industry. At age 15, he was working for Baby Phat by Kimora Lee Simmons and then went on to create his own brand, which has been worn by Kim Kardashian, Rihanna and others. In 2020, Jerome was a key designer in Beyonce’s “Black Is King” film on Disney+.
The three swapped stories about rising to the top of their professions, obstacles they faced along the way, and offered tips to the Disney Dreamers who aspire to follow in their footsteps.
Check out the video here:
If you want to hear more inspiration from these innovators, the full video is available at TheUndefeated.com.
Follow the links to find Part One of our “Chasing Dreams” series – Aesha Ash Shares Her Pioneering Journey as a Professional Ballerina to Becoming the First Black Female Permanent Faculty Member at the School of American Ballet and Part Two – Entrepreneurship Tips from CEOs Who Mentored Teens During Disney Dreamers Academy Virtual Program Series.
To stay up to date, follow Disney Dreamers Academy on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
