There are few things more powerful than watching someone overcome a crippling fear or disability to follow their dreams. That’s exactly what Alekso AugaiÄio did at his audition for X Factor Global.

In the video below, Alekso takes the stage with his head bent and a shy demeanor. A judge asks him a question, and Alekso looks as if he is about to answer, but no words come out.

It becomes apparent that Alekso has a debilitating stutter. He can’t even speak to the judges, but, with some encouragement, he makes it through a few verses of a song.

It’s beyond heartening to watch him literally find his voice.

But then, something even more incredible happens. The intro for Eminem’s “Lose Yourself”begins to play, and Alekso launches into a smooth, flawless rendition of the song. He raps the lyrics with ease, and his body language immediately speaks confidence and self-assurance.

The judges look blown away, startled by the contestant’s total change.

It’s so inspiring to watch Alekso overcome and prove to everyone exactly what he’s capable of.

At the end of his performance, he gets a huge and well-deserved round of applause.

Check out Alekso’s audition below (2:40), and share if this warmed your heart!