ORLANDO, Fla. — The Disney Dreamers Academy, one of the most exclusive events for high school students, returns to Walt Disney World beginning Thursday, with students from across the country participating in the four-day career boot camp.

It began in 2008 as a program to broaden career awareness for Black students and teenagers from underrepresented communities. In the years since, more than 1,500 students have participated.

The students who are chosen to participate are selected from thousands of applicants who submit essays about their dreams and plans for the future. Only 100 are chosen each year.

The students, along with a parent or guardian, are given an all-expenses-paid trip to Disney World, where, over the four-day event, they can learn from professionals in various fields and participate in workshops designed to teach different skills.

They will also hear from guest speakers from widespread backgrounds, including executives and celebrities. This year’s speakers include gospel artist Yolanda Adams, chef Jeff Henderson, Sonia Jackson Myles and Stephen A. Smith.

Two Central Florida students are among the 100 students who were selected: Zara Lwin (Orlando) and Noah Spinelli (Orlando). Nine other Florida students were also selected: Cameron W (Jacksonville), Cynthia M. (Bradenton), Dorsey M. (Parkland), Kaitlyn J. (Sarasota), Kimora R (St. Petersburg), Megan F. (Destin), Sara K. (Hollywood), Sophia D. (Cape Coral) and Sophia J. (Boca Raton).

Disney Dreamers Academy runs through March 26.