Watch as Kelly Rowland and Disney Dreamers speak with the National Newspaper Publishers Association’s Let It Be Known Live morning show.
By: Stacy Brown
Grammy-winning superstar Kelly Rowland said she knows the importance of dreaming big.
The Atlanta-born co-founder of the pop supergroup Destiny’s Child, Rowland, told NNPA Newswire that she was and remained inspired by other Black women. “Whitney Houston made me realize I can achieve my dreams,” Rowland said. “Janet Jackson, [Beyonce’s] mom, and there are others. All of them are inspirations.”
Rowland proved an inspiration to 100 young and impressionable students who descended upon Disney World for the four-day 2022 Disney Dreamers Academy.
Serving as this year’s celebrity ambassador for the program, Rowland led the students – called Dreamers – and others in a parade along Main Street in the Magic Kingdom. “This program really touches me,” Rowland declared. “I know how important it is, especially for students of color, when you think of the STEM aspect of this. We need STEM and STEAM because there’s such a big void there.”
The Disney Dreamers Academy aims to empower young ones to make their dreams come true. With slogans like “Be 100” and the opening day theme of “Dream … Bigger,” organizers at Walt Disney ensured that students remained enthused throughout the program. “I came here with one dream and left with another,” Disney Dreamer Alumni April Breedlove declared. The Atlanta-born Breedlove graduated from the Dreamers Academy in 2019. She graduated from the Georgia State Perimeter College in 2021 with an associate degree in computer science and remains on course to earn a bachelor’s degree from Kennesaw State University in 2023.
In October 2021, Breedlove began interning as an incoming software engineer at Walt Disney World. “Anything is possible,” said Breedlove, who graduated high school at 16. “I dream of creating a program called Code Cuisine, where I will teach kids the fundamentals of computer coding in exchange for food pantry donations. I envision Code Cuisine becoming a program that will benefit people all across the country.”
Participants in the academy have traveled from across the country to attend. Disney picks up all expenses, and officials said some students had never been on an airplane. The teens – some of whom began demonstrating entrepreneurial skills by the age of 13 – spend four days participating in hands-on workshops in fields they selected.
The students are encouraged, mentored, and instructed by experts, motivational speakers, and celebrities.
“I want the students to know and have the courage and confidence that their dreams matter,” Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Vice President and DDA Executive Champion Tracey Powell. “And that their dreams are so important and it can come true. All they have to do is believe in themselves.”
October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
