2022 African Achievement Awards Lifetime Achievement Award Recipients
Celebrating Musical Excellence, Cultural Pride, and Global Inspiration
The African Achievement Awards proudly honored the EriAm Sisters with the 2022 Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of their outstanding contributions to music, youth empowerment, cultural representation, and community service.
Known for their extraordinary harmonies, inspiring performances, and commitment to excellence, the EriAm Sisters have become internationally recognized ambassadors of African talent and one of the Pacific Northwest’s most celebrated musical groups.
A Story Rooted in Family and Culture
The EriAm Sisters—Haben Abraham, Salina Abraham, and Lianda Abraham, are an Eritrean-American vocal trio whose name, “EriAm,” stands for Eritrean-American Sisters. Their parents are originally from Eritrea, with Salina and Lianda born in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, and Haben born in Seattle, Washington. Growing up in a musical family, the sisters were inspired by their father, a musician, and developed a passion for singing at an early age.
From performing for family gatherings to sharing videos online, their exceptional talent quickly attracted attention and opened doors to national and international opportunities.
National Recognition on America’s Got Talent
The EriAm Sisters rose to international prominence in 2009 after appearing as semifinalists on NBC’s America’s Got Talent. Their powerful vocal performances earned praise from the celebrity judges, including Piers Morgan, who described them as “the future” and compared them to the next Destiny’s Child. Sharon Osbourne also praised their unique sound and stage presence.
Their appearance on one of America’s most-watched television talent competitions introduced millions of viewers to their remarkable voices and launched an international performing career.
A Journey of Musical Excellence
Following their national television success, the sisters continued to build an impressive career by performing throughout the United States and internationally.
Their music blends elements of:
- R&B
- Pop
- Soul
- Contemporary Music
- Inspirational Music
The EriAm Sisters have performed alongside and worked with respected music producers and artists while sharing stages at concerts, festivals, charity events, and community celebrations. They have toured internationally and built a loyal fan base through television appearances, live performances, and digital platforms.
Award-Winning Young Artists
Throughout their career, the sisters have received numerous honors recognizing both their musical achievements and community involvement.
Among their accomplishments:
- Named among the Seattle Theatre Group’s Best Young Artists in 2009.
- Received the Key to the City of Renton, Washington, after their success on America’s Got Talent.
- The City of Renton proclaimed September 21 as “EriAm Sisters Day” in recognition of their contributions to music and community service.
- Honored by King County with an Excellence in Music Award for their outstanding artistic achievements and positive impact.
These honors reflect not only their exceptional talent but also their dedication to giving back to the communities that have supported them.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Beyond their music, the EriAm Sisters have become role models for young people around the world.
Their journey demonstrates the importance of:
- Hard work
- Family values
- Education
- Faith
- Cultural pride
- Perseverance
- Community service
As daughters of Eritrean immigrants, they have proudly represented both their African heritage and their American upbringing, inspiring young people to embrace their identities while pursuing excellence in every aspect of life.
Their success has encouraged countless aspiring artists from immigrant and multicultural communities to believe that global success is possible through dedication and determination.
Honored by the African Achievement Awards
In 2022, the African Achievement Awards proudly presented the Lifetime Achievement Award to the EriAm Sisters in recognition of their remarkable contributions to music, culture, youth empowerment, and community leadership.
The award celebrates their enduring influence as artists who have:
- Elevated African talent on the international stage.
- Inspired young musicians through their achievements.
- Promoted cultural understanding through music.
- Served as positive role models within their communities.
- Demonstrated excellence, professionalism, and integrity throughout their careers.
Their story reflects the very mission of the African Achievement Awards, to recognize individuals whose achievements inspire others and strengthen communities around the world.
A Legacy That Continues to Inspire
The EriAm Sisters have proven that music has the power to bring people together across cultures, languages, and generations.
Their remarkable journey—from singing as children in the Pacific Northwest to performing on international stages, stands as a testament to the transformative power of talent, determination, and family support.
As artists, ambassadors, and community leaders, they continue to inspire audiences with their voices, their humility, and their commitment to excellence.
The African Achievement Awards is proud to celebrate the EriAm Sisters as 2022 Lifetime Achievement Award Recipients, honoring not only their extraordinary musical accomplishments but also the lasting legacy they continue to build through leadership, service, and cultural pride.
Their voices have entertained audiences around the world, but their greatest achievement is inspiring future generations to dream boldly, embrace their heritage, and pursue excellence without limits.
