Amer Sheikh

Amer Sheikh is an award winning British Asian chemistry teacher and part time rapper with his group 'The Word' who spread the message of anti racism. He has performed at the Sunderland Empire several times and has achieved national fame and recognition. He spreads the word of anti racism and that faith doesn't matter, he also talks of hopes and dreams.

Background

Amer Sheikh was born in Egypt and moved to the United Kingdom in the mid-1980s to study Civil Engineering. During this time he discovered a natural rapport and ability to communicate with young people. Eventually he made the courageous decision to quit the Ph.D. research that he had spent six years of his life working toward, in order to pursue his dream of teaching. He has a wife, Kelly and two children, Jamal and Leila. His subject is chemistry and he found himself increasingly popular with pupils but he was not happy with the increasing racism going on in the world.

The Word

In 2005, Sheikh teamed up with former pupil Brentt Barker and recognised child prodigy Ben Mushen to create rap group 'The Word'. They started off by performing in school assemblys and pupils found them to be very good at rap and almost professional. They then started touring schools spreading 'The Word' of anti racism. They became increasingly popular throughout the north east and eventually were approached to do a concert at the Sunderland Empire. They were a huge hit and were brought back through popular demand in June 2008. They have also released a single called 'Life as we live it'. They have worked in prisons, with Manchester United and Sunderland AFC. According to Rio Ferdinand, The Word have helped "put England on the map.". They also performed at the CoLaS awards with compère Kirsty Gallacher.

Controversy

Founding Member of The Word Ben Mushen filed a law suit against The Word in 2009, Mushen had grew tired of seeing the group thrive on the success which he worked so hard to achieve, only to be cast aside due to his alcohol problems. Ben Mushens Publicist Max Clifford gave this statement on the matter; "Ben Mushen wishes to claim what is rightfully his and seeks all royalties and damages which he is entitled to. He also wishes for 'The Word' to change their name to 'The Mushen' to show their respect and appreciation of him." The case is pending.

Members