Hello I know the challenge is over now but this is some of my work to include the final shot.
I created all of the elements not including the background that was a pic taken into PS and manipulated a bit. Also the gust of sand at the beginning and through out the shot were composited into the shot in AE.
Programs used: Maya, After Effects, and Photoshop
Maya playblast:
Still:
Final Shot: it took longer than the time given 6 days maybe 5h a day had some problems to work through but I like the final outcome.