Who are the Disney Global Ambassadors?
Disney Global Ambassadors represent thousands of cast members at our parks, resorts and experiences all around the world. They lead and participate in events, share cast member stories, spread Disney magic within their communities and represent their resort as an official spokesperson.
History & Heritage of the Disney Global Ambassador Program
The Disney Global Ambassador Program began during the Tencennial Celebration of Disneyland, commemorating the Park’s first successful decade of operation.
1964 was a busy time for Walt Disney and The Walt Disney Company: work was underway to celebrate the Tenth Anniversary of Disneyland; Mary Poppins was in theaters; teams were busy planning “Project X”, later to be revealed as Walt Disney World Resort; and all on the heels of the 1964 New York World’s Fair, which Walt Disney Imagineering had just created four new attractions for.
During this time, Walt received many requests for media interviews and to attend numerous events. Considering the Tenth Anniversary of Disneyland was close at hand, he wanted to do something special to help celebrate. Recognizing the talented Cast of Disneyland, the Ambassador Program was born.
Walt wanted to have a Disneyland Cast Member assist him with the many requests he received. The Ambassador’s duties would include making public appearances and speeches, escorting dignitaries and other VIP Guests visiting Disneyland, traveling the country and the world promoting the Disney ideals.
Since then, the program has grown to represent Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World Resort, Tokyo Disney Resort, Disneyland Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland, Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa and Shanghai Disney Resort.
Disney’s First Ambassador
The iconic legacy of the Disney Global Ambassador program began with Julie Reihm Casaletto, the first-ever Disney Ambassador. Julie began her Disney career as a tour guide at Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California. Two years later, the role of Disneyland Ambassador was created. Julie was chosen by Walt himself to serve as a representative of Disneyland, attending global events on behalf of Walt Disney.
In 1971, Walt Disney World Resort selected its first Disney Ambassador, Debby Dane Browne. The program expanded to Tokyo Disney Resort, Disneyland Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland, Aulani – A Disney Resort & Spa, and Shanghai Disney Resort.
Meet the Disney Ambassadors Around the World
Since its inception in 1965, the Disney Ambassador program has grown to become a global force, with representatives all around the world. Meet your 2022-2023 Disney Global Ambassadors!
