Mayor Jenny Durkan announced Nesib “CB” Shamah as the recipient of the 14th Annual Mayor’s Award for Achievement in Film.

“I am proud to present the 2019 Mayor’s Award for Achievement in Film to CB,” said Mayor Durkan. “His work is a testament to the outstanding talent and ingenuity of Seattle’s creative community, and I applaud all he does to create opportunity for his fellow local filmmakers. CB both represents and has helped shepherd Seattle’s film industry and is incredibly deserving of this recognition.”

“It is truly an honor to be recognized with the Mayor’s Award for Outstanding Achievement in Film for doing something I love. I am humbled to have my name added to this list of award winners that have been and continue to be a source of inspiration for my work,” said Shamah. “The City of Seattle continues to support and foster Seattle film, and this award is proof of that.”

The Mayor’s Award for Outstanding Achievement in Film recognizes an individual or entity for exceptional work that has significantly contributed to the growth, advancement and reputation of Seattle as a filmmaking city. The award will be presented by Mayor Durkan at the Seattle International Film Festival Opening Night Gala on May 16.

Nesib “CB” Shamah is an Emmy-nominated producer and director best known for the music documentary, Welcome to Doe Bay, SJ Chiro’s Lane 1974 and the science fiction short film Haskell. He attended the Seattle Film Institute before producing and directing over 25 live music shoots and the music web series Destination Unknown. Shamah also led the renovation of the historic Columbia City Theater music venue.

Shamah has contributed to the Seattle film and music landscape for years, from his work on community advisory boards to financing and executive producing many local film projects. As a current board member of both the Satterberg Foundation and the Northwest Film Forum, Shamah advances social justice by telling unique stories in his own films and providing support for other artists to bring their visions to life on big and small screens.

The Mayor’s Award for Achievement in Film will be presented to Shamah at the SIFF Opening Night Gala, where local filmmaker Lynn Shelton’s newest film, Sword of Trust, will kick off the festival.

To learn more about the award and previous winners, visit seattle.gov/filmandmusic/film/mayors-film-award.