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X Factor’s Shan has been a standout performer in almost every week of the ITV singing competition.

Not only is she a fan favourite but the 25-year-old is also considered the bookies’ pick to win season 15.

However, she’s been switching between her stage name, Shan Smile, and her supposed real name, Sha Ako, as we head towards the grand final.

So what is the story behind her stage name? And who are her parents?

What is Shan’s Full Name?

Shan’s full name, including first and middle names, is Shanice Akosua Smith.

However, she is more commonly known as Shan or by her stage name, Shan Smile.

Her mum gave her the name of Shanice after American singer and songwriter Shanice Wilson.

One of Shanice Wilson’s most famous songs is 1991 hit I Love Your Smile, which is the reason behind the stage name Shan Smile.

Shanice’s dad also gave her the middle name of Akosua, which has Ghanaian origin and means born on a Sunday.

How Old is Shan Ako?

Shan was born on January 17th, 1993 – which we also know was a Sunday!

This makes her 25 and a Capricorn

She is competing in X Factor 2018’s Girls category against Bella Penfold and Scarlett Lee, with Simon Cowell as a mentor.

Shan Ako: Heritage

Shan was born in Croydon, London, and has a Jamaican family.

Both her parents are Jamaican although we do not know their full profiles at this stage.

However, Shan is clearly heavily influenced by her dad, announcing on Facebook that her two biggest influencers in her life are “god and her dad.”

What Else do We Know?

Shan was a member of the prestigious BRIT School, where she graduated in 2011.

She then went on to study Music Business & Arts Management where she graduated with a First Class Bachelors from Middlesex University in 2014.

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