Under the supervision of Erbil Governor Omed Khoshnaw, and in the presence of Farhang Ghafour, General Director of Culture and Arts, and Hiwa Suad, Head of the Erbil Branch of the Artists’ Syndicate, a special ceremony was held at the headquarters of the Kurdistan Artists’ Syndicate – Erbil Branch to honor the renowned Kurdish artist Ayam Akram, widely known as “Shamo.”
The ceremony, organized in coordination with the Erbil Governorate, brought together a number of artists, colleagues, and friends to recognize Akram’s lifelong contributions to Kurdish theatre and drama. During the event, an Award of Appreciation was presented to the veteran artist in recognition of his influential role in the development of Kurdish arts.
In his speech, Governor Khoshnaw praised Akram’s artistic career, highlighting his historical impact and enduring presence in Kurdish theatre and drama. He described the honor as a source of pride for the city of Erbil and wished the artist continued success, good health, and further achievements in his artistic journey.
The governor also emphasized Erbil’s rich cultural and artistic heritage, noting that the city has long been home to hundreds of talented artists, intellectuals, and writers. He reaffirmed the Erbil Governorate’s commitment to supporting and promoting Kurdish art and culture in all possible ways.
Ayam Akram “Shamo” was born in 1964 in the Khanaqa neighborhood of Erbil. A prominent Kurdish comedy actor, he has appeared in numerous theatre, film, and television productions and has played a significant role in advancing Kurdish performing arts. He began his artistic career in the 1980s and graduated from the Fine Arts Institute, Theatre Department, in Mosul in 1988.
