KOTA KINABALU: Two special needs students from Keningau Vocational College won first prize in an international online festival competition.
Dressmaking programme students Nurosimah Jumat and Brenda Ashley, both 18, took part in the illustrated storytelling category at the Under The Skies Of Australia festival competition, organised by the European Association of Folklore Festivals (EAFF).
Nurosimah, from Papar, has visual impairment, while Brenda, from Tambunan, has learning difficulties.
Their video, titled "John and the Witch", was created by randomly selecting picture cards to inspire a storyline, which they then turned into a full-text narration.
Nurosimah, who wants to become a police officer, said: "It took us about a week to complete everything for the competition.
"I'm glad I overcame my fears to join the competition. I'm also thrilled and touched to be able to make the school proud.
"This achievement will motivate me to give my best in future projects.
"Despite having disabilities, I am confident I can achieve my dream if I remain committed."
Brenda, who wants to become a nurse, thanked teachers and friends who had helped her.
"I didn't know I could do it until I did. The teachers motivate us to maximise our abilities, creating the right environment for learning, which I think is meaningful for people like me."
College director Christine Stanislaus Kinsik praised the students for their courage and drive in pursuing their ambitions.
She said the school's special needs education programme provided equal opportunities to boost students' self-esteem and career prospects.
The EAFF, founded in 2007 in the Bulgarian city of Veliko Tarnovo, aims to preserve, develop and promote European folklore through the organisation of festivals and the use of technology.