Two Scared Heart High School students showcased their 3D animation talents at the national Skills Canada competition in Waterloo, Ontario.
Kyle Mierau and Zayell Johnston represented Saskatchewan from May 20th to the 23rd at RIM Park. About 500 competitors from across Canada participated in an Olympic-style forum within 45 skill categories.
"When I went [to Ontario] it was kind of an eye opener that I can do it, and that I'm at the same skill level as other provinces," said Johnston. Both Johnston and Mierau had never been on a plane before, and found the Toronto airport alone was an impressive experience.
The 3D animation competition involved creating and animating characters and models used in storytelling. They were given the theme "are we there yet?" and the Sacred Heart team chose to create and animate a young boy going with his grandpa for ice cream.
While Sacred Heart did not leave with a medal, the chance to work at a national level was full of rewards. Johnston had the honour of being Team Saskatchewan's flag bearer at the closing ceremonies. Both students also had the opportunity to see Mike Holmes distributing medals at the closing ceremonies.
After returning from the Skills Canada competition, the students said they are considering careers in 3D animation such as video game design and special effects for movies.
