Bay of Plenty Polytechnic student Mau Arahanga is learning what seems impossible can be made possible with perseverance.
Despite being partially blind he is studying graphic design.
The 31-year-old student is wowing his classmates and tutor with his art ability, despite his disability.
"I think they were a bit shocked and didn't know
what to expect," Mr Arahanga said with a smile.
"But it can be done, anything can be done."
Five years ago Mr Arahanga was involved in an accident that left him with a brain injury, resulting in a visual impairment.
Mr Arahanga has tunnel vision, which means he is only able to see what is directly in front of him. People are clearer to him the further away they are.
Mr Arahanga sits at the back of the classroom to see his tutor, and requires a note taker and a guide around campus - whose arm he links with to get around.
Mr Arohanga said his accident had propelled him to pursue a career he never thought possible.
"My sister said 'you should learn to touch type', so I learnt to touch type. Then I said 'I want to go to polytech'."
Last year Mr Arahanga completed the Certificate in Computer Graphic Design Level 4.
This year he is working towards his Diploma in Design (Graphic) Level 6, and will then move onto a Bachelor of Computer Graphic Design.
He wants to become a freelance graphic designer working from home.
