A Bradford woman has received national praise for a video she produced to help dispel myths surrounding disability. And she has landed herself a new career as a family support worker as a result.

Twenty one-year-old Fozia Shah, of Buller Street, Sticker Lane, Bradford, wanted to show Asian people that disability was not something to be scared of.

She applied for a Rathbone Millennium Award and £2,000.

The ten-minute video has already been snapped up by a national training organisation.

And Fozia, pictured, was approached by a consultant at St Luke's Hospital who wants to keep a copy of the video in the library to show parents.

Fozia said: "I didn't think it would take off like this. I am amazed by its success."

Fozia said she had always felt passionately about disability.

"My mum is a carer and both my sister and brother-in-law work for disability organisations. I remember my friends' reaction when they used to come to our house and see the disabled people. Some of them were actually afraid.

"To me it is completely normal and nothing at all to be ashamed of. But I had a strong feeling that particularly within the Asian community it was regarded as taboo."

The project has helped her personally as well.

"It has given me a lot of self-esteem and confidence. I went to school, got married and thought that was it, but it has taken off."

She now works at Sure Start Barkerend and is relishing the new challenges in her life.

She has also just returned from a trip to London where there was widespread interest in the video.

The award covers all expenses related to completing a project, including travelling.

Sarah O'Brien, Rathbone Millennium Awards tutor/mentor, said: "When I first met Fozia she was eager to find an opportunity and contribute to society and she has done really well.

"She has done voluntary work for us as an assessor, looking at other peoples' forms. I recommended her as an Achiever of the Month and she has gone through to the national competition.

"Her video has been widely circulated and it has given her the confidence to get herself a new job. It just shows what can be achieved from taking the first step."

More awards are available to young people aged up to 25 who want to improve their community and themselves. For more information about the scheme, call (01274) 718300.