Jubilant: (Bottom row) Elham Nurin Arisya and Puteri Helena Yasmeen (second and third from right, respectively) posing with their awards. — YAP CHEE HONG/The Star
As university students, they often have little time to spare.
Yet, some 230 Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) mass communication students managed to pause and create a reel about the person who inspires them most – and in doing so, discovered their own voice.
For Danisha Afuza Azizul, that voice earned her first place in The Star’s Reels of Achievers Recognised (StarROAR) Junior Reporter Contest, run under The Star’s Newspaper-in-Education (Star-NiE) programme in partnership with UiTM.
Held from May 5 to June 27, the contest required participants to create a reel – 15 seconds to three minutes long – where they played the role of a news reporter and shared the story of an inspirational figure featured in The Star’s print or digital platforms.
The reels were then posted on Instagram with the hashtag StarROARJuniorReporterContest and tagged to @starbrats and @thestaronline.
Winners were judged on content accuracy, creativity, integration of The Star, and reel popularity. Prizes included Touch ‘n Go e-wallet credits worth RM1,000, RM800, RM600, RM400, and RM200 for the top five winners, with 20 consolation prizes valued at RM50 each. All winners and participants received certificates as well.
Danisha shared that her reel, inspired by artist Red Hong Yi, reflects her admiration for authenticity and originality.
“I want people to know that everyone has their unique way of spreading positivity and creativity. Sometimes, people hold back because they don’t see others doing things the same way. But actually, your own creativity could have a huge impact on your life and even inspire others,” the 21-year-old said.
Second-place winner Elham Nurin Arisya Ahmad Irwan chose to spotlight Indonesian president Prabowo Subianto.
Reflecting on her experience, the 21-year-old admitted the journey was not without hurdles.
“The main challenge was ensuring that all the information I presented was 100% accurate, while also balancing my assignments,” she said.
Third-place winner Puteri Helena Yasmeen Fadzil drew inspiration from Malaysian singer-songwriter Yuna, whose message of self-belief resonated deeply.
“I created a video around what Yuna once said – just because you are able to do something locally does not mean you cannot go further. People should remember this because we’re capable of doing so many things. We should not limit ourselves out of fear,” the 22-year-old said.
In his opening speech at the award ceremony held at Menara Star in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, on Aug 27, UiTM Mass Communications dean Assoc Prof Dr Abd Rasid Abd Rahman expressed pride in the students’ achievements.
“Our students embraced the challenge with professionalism, innovation, and passion for storytelling. Their work reflects not only their dedication, but also the guidance and encouragement from the faculty and staff,” he said.
WINNING TIPS
"When you’re passionate about your subject, it shows in your work. do research. the more you know, the more meaningful your work will be. most importantly, write with heart, enjoy the process and believe that your voice –and the story you choose to tell – can truly make an impact." — Elham Nurin Arisya
"Don’t be scared of being cringe. I used to be so scared of it, but then I saw other people who were unapologetically themselves and thought, ‘Wow, that’s actually so attractive.’ If I find others appealing when they’re just being themselves, then I shouldn’t be afraid to do the same. So yeah – be cool. Cringe is cool."— Puteri Helena Yasmeen
"Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and share your ideas, even if you think they are not ‘perfect’. be consistent, stay original, and most importantly, enjoy the process. you will learn so much along the way, and the experience itself is already a big win." — Danisha
