The idea of starring in a music video for the first time would be daunting for many, but for a disability group in the NSW Upper Hunter region, it was the perfect outlet for personal expression.
I'm A Warrior (Yeah Yeah Yeah) was created by Warrior Disability Services in Muswellbrook, and was given a superstar premiere at a local cinema this week.
At the premiere, Warrior Leah Cameron said being in a rap music video was a dream come true.
"I just loved being part of the video, and making me and my family proud. It was so much fun."
ABC Upper Hunter: Bridget Murphy
)Lyrics on lived experiences
Giving the group a fresh way to tell their story was the goal of the rap track, which was made possible by Newcastle's Up&Up Inspirations.
Shane Kennedy from Up&Up said the growth that he saw among the Warriors was outstanding.
ABC Upper Hunter: Bridget Murphy
)"Their individual journey and stories are amazing," Mr Kennedy said.
He said once the Warriors became comfortable with the process, they really started to shine.
"They showed lots and lots of courage and confidence by the end," he said.
Supplied: Warrior Disability Services
)Rebecca Eveleigh from Upper Hunter Community Services said that while some of the warriors needed a little extra coaxing to get involved, the team was thrilled to take part.
"Some of the lyrics are quite strong, around what the guys have written about on their life and on themselves," Ms Eveleigh said.
Supplied: Disability Warrior Services
)An outlet for storytelling
Warrior Disability Services director of participant services Sally Pereira said the music video shoot was a particularly fun day for the Warriors.
Supplied: Warrior Disability Services
)"If you're feeling low, music can just bring you up."
Warrior Brooke Thompson has a favourite lyric in her verse.
"Small steps, they're bloody big moves," she says.
"It was really awesome that all of the Warriors got involved in our video.
"We all just had a go and we just never give up."
Source: ABC