A 15-year-old Samoan student of Loto Taumafai Society has shown the world that his talents go beyond his disabilities and scooped the silver award in the World Children's Picture Contest.

The contest was held by the IE-NO-HIKARI Association, a Japanese organisation which has managed the World Children's Picture Contest since 1993.

Faamanu Swerlling joined the contest late last year, through the Japan International Cooperation Agency, with officials from the Japanese government agency awarding him his prize on Tuesday. 

The student was not present to receive his prize, with his aunt from Malie, Malia Upulasi receiving the award on his behalf. According to Ms. Upulasi, Faamanu's parents had always dreamt of their son using his talent to take his place in society despite his disabilities. Faamanu has a hearing disability and his intellectual growth is slower.

Ms. Upulasi said she stayed with her nephew and his twin for several months, and while Faamanu hardly spoke due to his hearing disability, his artistic talent was exceptional through his art pieces.

“Every time I was with them during that particular period, he was on his drawing books and always drawing. The only person I noticed he talks to was his twin brother, Fa’afetai Swerlling," Ms. Upulasi said.

"I am inspired to know that my nephew's abilities and talents in the art are better than most able-bodied people. In the past years, his little twin brother also competed and received an award. We are blessed and proud of our twins.”

The young boy is now in Pago Pago, American Samoa for vacation and will celebrate his achievement when he returns on Thursday from the U.S. territory. 

School teacher, Leata Toma Faiese said she has been watching the progress her students have made through the years, and they expressed themselves through their art.

“Over 30 per cent of the students here are excellent in art and sketching. I think their artworks are as same as the drawings of other students in other primary schools," she said.

"Since the principal is not here, I thank J.I.C.A. for the great opportunities for our children, especially with these contests and we wish that we find our next competitor for next year.”

Fa’amanu named his artwork 'My Culture'. The drawing or artwork portrays his views on culture and heritage objects used in the Samoan culture. In the drawing, there is a Tanoa Paluava (Kava Bowl), Tau’ava (Coconut cup),  fue and a to’oto’o used by Samoan orators.