Our sponsor, centre, with fellow musicians 

 

 

Our sponsor is Zirak Hamad a musician, cultural facilitator and community leader. Although originally from Iraqi Kurdistan, he has been based in the UK since 2002. He has a passion for sharing the rich musical traditions of the Middle East and the evening will feature live music from his homeland.

 

 

 

 

Members and guests can expect to sample dolma which is one of the most traditional and beloved dishes of Kurdistan, known for bringing families and communities together. It is typically served on a large tray placed in the middle of the table, allowing everyone to share and choose what they’d like to eat. It is more than just food, dolma represents togetherness, hospitality and Kurdish cultural identity.

 

 

 

 

Citadel of Erbil, Iraq’s oldest city

 

Zirak will reflect on Kurdistan’s history which is marked by its people’s long presence in the mountainous regions of the Middle East, a history of tribal and dynastic rule and a struggle for self-determination against larger empires. Kurds faced the loss of their hoped-for independent state after World War I, which led to their territory being divided between Turkey, Iran, Iraq and Syria. Despite this statelessness and repression, the Kurds have maintained their culture which will be celebrated at the Club’s vibrant autumn dinner.