In traditional Korean, the word 'Seoul' means capital. Seoul, also the capital of Korea, is a large city with a mix of old and new.

The Hangang River flows through Seoul from east to west and is surrounded by large mountains.

The city offers rich history and tradition along with the latest IT technology, inevitably making it, 'a one of a kind' place to visit and the perfect place to hold the Abilympics World Skills Competition.

Similarly to the sporting Olympics, the Abilympics is held every four years and so far eight have been held around the world, including Perth, Western Australia.

The West Australian not-for-profit organisation aims to provide work skill activities for people with disabilities and encourages the improvement of their vocational skills.

After being approached by an organiser of the event to attend the trip, clerical staff member at the SSTUWA, Danielle and her husband Bryan Stitfall were fortunate enough to compete in the competition which saw them visit the city over three days.

Members of the Australian team competed in Wood Carving, Photography, Bicycle Assembly, E-Sports, Data Entry and Word Processing, explained Danielle.

To be selected, Danielle had to prove that she was competent in using Microsoft Word and Data Entry.

Bryan also competed in Data Entry and the life skills competition E-sports.

“We didn't come away with any medals this time. But we came 4th in E-Sports behind Korea and China and really, that is a feat in itself as Korea and China are the E-Sports capitals of the world. The competition was fierce and as this was my first competition, I didn't realise to what extent until I got there. I was quietly confident up until then!” 

Overcoming the language barriers was initially a challenge, but learning some of the Korean vocabulary proved highly beneficial and although Danielle said she can type at a reasonably fast speed, she claims she will still need more practice to match the Korean team.

“The trip was an experience of a lifetime, we had a great team that just clicked instantly, we experienced a new culture, great sights, watched great performances, met dignitaries with a passion for improving the lives of people with disabilities and best of all we met other competitors/new friends from all over the world.  I was pinching myself the whole time as I couldn't believe I was given the opportunity to participate in such a fantastic event in such a great city,” said Danielle. 

“There really are great opportunities out there for people with disabilities who are struggling to find employment or looking to increase their skills and confidence. Even though I didn't win I still have come away with an increased confidence in my abilities. We did our best and we had a ball doing it!”