ROMPIN: Winning the Certiport Adobe Certified Professional World Championship 2024 has earned a graphic design diploma student a scholarship worth RM35,806.
Izzul Zafran Abd Razak, 20, who studies at Politeknik Muadzam Shah here was crowned the champion in the professional certification competition in California, United States, bringing pride to Malaysia on an international stage.
He did not expect to win as he was competing against 46 other participants, including two national representatives who previously secured first and second places in the Creative Cloud Community's Adobe Certified Professional Malaysia National Championship in May.
"It felt like a dream when my name and design appeared on the screen during the announcement.
"I also wondered how I could win because I only aimed to be among the top 10. But I am grateful and consider this victory a blessing and valuable experience that not everyone can enjoy," he said when contacted by Harian Metro.
Izzul Zafran, who is the second of four siblings, admitted to being nervous representing the country in the global competition.
Despite being qualified to compete, he said his journey was not easy due to challenges faced before and once he was at the competition venue.
He was thankful because his family, friends, and his graphic design project lecturer and supervisor Nurul Fadzillah Abdul Wahab provided guidance that helped him overcome challenges.
"After making it to the top three and qualifying to represent the country, I prepared for two months with the help of my lecturer who assisted in strategising and technical aspects.
"I had issues with sponsorship and funding which nearly made me give up due to the significant amount of money required.
"But my family, especially my father, supported me financially and I am grateful that I eventually received sponsorship from the Polytechnic and Community College Education Department," he added.
Despite the difficulties, Izzul Zafran is satisfied with his achievement and considers his efforts worthwhile for winning the championship.
"I am proud to be a student of my polytechnic who is able to compete on an international-level. My next mission is to pursue victory in VISCOM 23, the final project competition for the graphic design diploma.
"My success is only just beginning, and I thank everyone who supported me, especially my parents for being my number one supporters and backbone," he said, expressing plans to continue his studies at the degree level and ambition to become a lecturer.