Celebrating World Storytelling Day: How Mentorship is Shaping Future Careers One Story at a Time
No place in the world captures the art of storytelling quite like The Walt Disney Company. On World Storytelling Day, Disney is celebrating stories in all of its imaginative forms to connect and inspire the world over.
At Disney, storytelling is about more than just the films and television shows that entertain fans and families — it’s also about the knowledge, experiences, and wisdom passed down to the next generation of talent. The lessons learned from years of professional experience ultimately become the treasured stories that help shape the careers of interns and early-career dreamers.
Disney Future Storytellers is Disney’s commitment to inspiring the next generation of storytellers and innovators. Through social investments and programs that provide inspiration and hands-on experience, we’re inspiring youth to imagine their possibilities and expanding access to training, professional networks, and financial support in the media, entertainment, technology, and hospitality industries.
Once a dreamer himself, Andy Lerma has navigated both the successes and challenges of a storied career, and he sees these experiences as lessons worth sharing with future leaders at Disney. As Director, Creative Advertising & Design for Disney Entertainment Studios, Andy brings stories to life each day through creative marketing. Now, he is using his expertise to mentor Disney Future Storytellers scholars, passing down knowledge, bridging generations, and helping shape future careers.
Learn more about Andy’s dedication to mentoring emerging talent and continuing the legacy of storytelling at Disney.
What inspired you to become a Disney Future Storytellers mentor?
I’ve always believed in investing in future talent and helping others discover their potential. Mentorship is a way for me to give back, share my experiences, and support the next generation of creatives who will shape the future of storytelling.
What does Disney mean to you?
Disney is more than just a company—it’s a legacy studio that has defined storytelling for generations. It represents creativity, innovation, and the ability to create meaningful connections through stories. Growing up, Disney was a source of nostalgia for me, shaping my imagination and inspiring my passion for storytelling. Now, having the opportunity to be part of that legacy is both an honor and a responsibility.
How do you incorporate storytelling into your role at Disney?
Every project I work on is rooted in storytelling—whether it’s through creative marketing, key art, or branding takeovers. My goal is always to create visuals and campaigns that not only capture attention but also evoke emotion and connect with audiences. Working at a legacy studio like Disney means understanding how every piece of content contributes to its rich history while also pushing creativity forward.
What is your favorite Disney story?
I’ve always been drawn to stories of adventure and self-discovery, so Coco resonates deeply with me. It beautifully explores culture, family, and identity while reminding us to embrace where we come from. It’s also a great example of how Disney, as a legacy studio, continues to evolve and bring new voices into its storytelling.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of being a mentor?
Mentoring scholars from Disney Future Storytellers program has been a rewarding experience. It’s incredible to see their growth, creativity, and passion for the industry. I’ve learned just as much from the scholars I’ve mentored as they have from me, and it’s fulfilling to know that I can contribute to fostering future talent within a studio that has such a strong legacy in storytelling.
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