US President Barack Obama inspired a generation of Americans when he took office in 2009 - and not just with his message of hope. A cast of Obama look-a-likes from all around the world have become Internet celebrities. And the 44th US President was even responsible for a brand new job – the “Obama mimicker.”

Alham Anas, a Indonesian photojournalist, has broadened his career, earning a good living as an Obama double. He even took part in Chinese advertising campaigns.

People in other fields took less advantage of their Obama likeness. Azeri pediatrician Zaur Akhmedov became a local celebrity in Russia as he looked like Obama’s twin. But rather than cash in, he simply continued his daily work curing sick children – an accomplishment no less great than can be acheived by a superpower president.

Xiao Jiguo from northern China’s Taiyuan, Shanxi Province saw a chance to improve his career by mimicking Obama. He jumped from one talent show to another and received offers as a side actor in movies and TV series. But Obama will soon leave the White House in US President-elect Donald Trump’s hands. The change may boost the market for Trump impersonators, but it also leaves a question mark hanging over Xiao’s performing career. Xiao isn’t worried. “I hope I can shape my own performance style and make my own way out. I’ll make people know about who I really am rather than as an Obama mimicker,” said the young man. ‍