The story of the first journalist with disabilities in Kurdistan

Kashma Farouq, Member of the Media Monitoring Unit of the Kurdish Intellectuals Organization in the UK

The story of Shahab Ahmed is a profound testament to resilience and willpower. His journey from a life-altering accident to becoming a pioneering journalist is summarized in the following highlights:

A Tragic Incident and a New Beginning

In 2012, in a village within the Akre district, Shahab Ahmed lost both of his hands due to a severe electric shock. Rather than allowing this tragedy to define him, it became the catalyst for him to prove that human potential knows no bounds. He is now recognized as the first journalist with special needs to share his success story through the Kurdish Intellectuals Organization in the UK.

Education and Specialization

Despite the immense physical and emotional challenges, Shahab remained committed to his education:

• He completed his studies up to the 12th grade, though external circumstances prevented him from finishing high school.

• He later enrolled in a private institute to study Information Technology (IT) and is currently in his second year.

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Milestones in the Media World

Shahab’s lifelong dream was to become a presenter and appear on screen. His career in media began in 2017:

• Zawa TV: His debut as a presenter was on the program “Didari Hawshewakany” (Meeting Peers).

  

• Ravan TV: On this local channel, he hosted a program dedicated to writers and media professionals.

• Voice of Kurdistan Radio – Akre: After a one-year hiatus for hand surgery, he returned to host “Ganch u Shiyan” (Youth and Ability), a show focused on successful youth and individuals with disabilities.

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Defying the Odds

Shahab recalls the initial difficulties of using prosthetic hands to hold a microphone, which often drew public attention. Ignoring the skeptics, he persevered with “iron will” and has since become a prominent figure in both traditional media and on social media platforms.

He is considered the first media professional with special needs in the Kurdistan Region to work across all three major fields: visual, audio, and print media. He credits much of his success to the support of his mentor, Kamal Ramazan.

Literary Contributions

Shahab is an author with one published book and another currently in production:

• “Disability is Not an Obstacle”: Published recently, this book is available in bookstores across Akre and Duhok. It was written between 2021 and 2026. The cover was designed by Azad Mustafa, with linguistic editing by Zeravan Tamo. The title was suggested by Saida Kamal Akreyi, Director of Voice of Kurdistan Radio.

• Second Book (In Press): This autobiography details his life from the moment he lost his hands to his rise in the media industry and the fulfillment of his dreams.

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Achievements and Awards

Shahab has excelled in various competitive fields:

• Calligraphy: Won 3rd place in the Duhok Governorate calligraphy competition.

• Poetry Recitation: Won 2nd place among schools in the Akre district.

• Active Youth Award (2024): Ranked 1st in Duhok Governorate and 2nd in the Kurdistan Region as the most active and talented youth with special needs.

Shahab Ahmed’s life stands as a powerful reminder that physical limitations cannot hinder creativity, writing, or the pursuit of excellence.