What an unforgettable weekend it’s shaping up to be! D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, presented by Visa®, will reach its crescendo on Sunday, August 11, with the legendary Disney Legends Awards Ceremony. This prestigious tradition, now in its 37th year, honors the creative giants and visionaries who have shaped and enriched The Walt Disney Company’s magnificent history. Among this year’s illustrious honorees are Colleen Atwood, Angela Bassett, Martha Blanding, James L. Brooks, James Cameron, Jamie Lee Curtis, Miley Cyrus, Steve Ditko, Harrison Ford, Mark Henn, Frank Oz, Kelly Ripa, Joe Rohde, and John Williams.
In a rare and exclusive Q&A, we had the chance to catch up with the trailblazing Martha Blanding, who will be honored in the Parks & Resorts category. Blanding, who holds the remarkable distinction of being Disneyland Resort’s first Black VIP Tour Guide and first Black female leader, shares her extraordinary journey and the significance of this momentous recognition.
Reflecting on her groundbreaking achievements, Blanding says, “Being the first Black Permanent Tour Guide, VIP Hostess, and becoming the first Black Female in Management was amazing. My parents taught me to always put my best foot forward and always do my best, and that’s what I did.” Her 50-year career is highlighted by the evolution she witnessed within Disney, from the addition of new lands and attractions to pioneering efforts in cultural diversity, equity, and inclusion. Blanding is particularly proud of founding PULSE (People, United, Lead, Serve, Excel), Disney’s Black diversity group, which has played a crucial role in fostering an inclusive environment for young Cast Members of color.
For Blanding, the magic of Disney extends beyond the attractions. “Creating the magic for our guests and Cast Members, and designing events that our guests will remember and share with family and friends, has stood out the most to me,” she reveals. Chronicling her incredible experiences in her book, “Groundbreaking Magic,” has given her the chance to relive her journey and inspire others to reach their personal goals and help others along the way.
Receiving the Disney Legend accolade was an unexpected honor for Blanding. She recalls, “Becoming a Disney Legend was not something that I thought would happen to me. I was totally surprised when I received the call.” Her story from starting as an hourly Cast Member to reaching legendary status is a luminous beacon of how dedication and hard work can lead to extraordinary achievements within the Disney family.
We would love to hear your thoughts on Martha Blanding’s inspiring journey and the upcoming Disney Legends Awards! Share your comments below and don’t forget to spread this magical story with fellow Disney enthusiasts.
Source: The Walt Disney Company
