The story of a disabled orphan who rises above his poverty and a severe physical challenge is the Bermuda International Film Festival?s (BIFF) February Film Series selection.

?Emmanuel?s Gift? will screen on Thursday at 7.30 p.m. at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute (BUEI).

This upbeat documentary is narrated by Oprah Winfrey, and tells the story of Emmanuel Ofosu Yeboah from Ghana, who is changing his country?s abhorrent treatment of the disabled.

In 2001, he rode his bicycle across Ghana on a goodwill tour to overturn tribal superstitions and entrenched prejudices about people with disabilities ? and he did so with only one normal leg.

Mr. Yeboah, now a celebrated disabled athlete, was born with a shortened femur bone in his right leg. In Ghana, such disabilities often lead parents to commit infanticide.

Mr. Yeboah?s remarkable bicycling feat was just the first of many, and his awe-inspiring journey awakened the spirit of others throughout the world. Robin Williams, United Nations head Kofi Anan and Miss Winfrey are among the celebrities touched by Mr. Yeboah and who continue to support his efforts.

Beautifully photographed and critically acclaimed, ?Emmanuel?s Gift? is a compelling and inspirational story of courage and determination about a man who had nothing, but gave everything.

The film has won a number of festival awards, including the Audience Choice and Best Documentary awards at the Newport Beach, Atlanta and Cinequest (San Jose) events.

Tickets to the film may be reserved by e-mailing infobiff.bm . Tickets to BIFF Film Nights are $8 for BIFF Film Club members, and $10 for non-members.