Miriam Nerma

Miriam Nerma, also known as Mariam Raphael Romaya Nerma (; 1890–1972) was an Iraqi journalist and teacher. Born to a Chaldean Catholic Assyrian family from Tel Keppe, she found her passion for writing in Baghdad. Her article, "To a Sect of Iraqis" , published in 1921, is considered the first article written by a woman to be published in a mainstream Iraqi newspaper.

Early life Miriam was born in 1890 (or 1885, according to some sources ) as the sole girl among several brothers. According to Miriam's biography, her mother encouraged her to dedicate herself to education. It was unusual for girls to finish school at the time, but Miriam completed primary school and enrolled in a high school in Basra. After returning to Baghdad, where her family lived, she found her passion for writing and began a personal journal. Originally the newspaper was issued twice a week, but later shifted to a weekly release. The newspaper was well received but failed to be financially successful, causing Miriam to publish it from her home in Baghdad. The newspaper released only 24 issues.

Later life and death In 1969 Miriam was honored by the Iraqi government Ministry of Heritage for her pioneering role in Iraqi Journalism.