Daily Inspiration: Meet Weam

Today we’d like to introduce you to Weam.

Hi Weam, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Long ago, my dream was simply to write books, but everything changed in the mid-1990s when I realized the extent of stereotyping about the Middle East, especially its women, in the West. At Heathrow Airport, I saw novels by Western authors depicting Middle Eastern women as veiled victims of abusive husbands or fathers. It disturbed me that this was the only narrative available.

Born in Baghdad as a minority Christian, I moved to the U.S. at age ten. Here, I learned of my Chaldean roots—ancestors of Neo-Babylonians who still speak Aramaic and trace their lineage to Abraham. Chaldeans have contributed immensely to civilization, from the invention of writing to influential figures like Enheduanna, the first recorded writer in history. Yet, these rich stories were largely absent in Western literature and media.

In 2014, ISIS attacked Christian villages in Iraq, displacing countless families, including those connected to my heritage. As artists worked to preserve history on canvas, I picked up my pen to amplify the voices of my community, determined to share stories of love, culture, and courage—not just war and politics.

I also delved into the stories of women like Enheduanna, who played a pivotal role in Mesopotamian politics and religion, and Queen Kubaba, the only queen on the Sumerian Kings List. These women’s contributions have been overshadowed by the rise of patriarchy, erasing much of “her story” from history. This imbalance has deeply impacted the Middle East, but I hold hope in the Dalai Lama’s belief that “Western women will save the world” by reviving these lost narratives.

In 2003, at the Surrey Writers’ Conference, I pitched my stories to Hollywood producers, only to be met with skepticism about casting Arab roles in film. This didn’t deter me. Inspired by filmmakers like Mira Nair, who bridge cultural divides, I pursued filmmaking. By 2004, I was a film student at the Motion Picture Institute of Michigan, where my thesis project, Green Card Wedding, premiered to great reception. That success marked the beginning of my journey to bring authentic Middle Eastern stories to the screen.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No, it has not been a smooth road. Unfortunately, my own community has long struggled to support storytellers, women, or arts and culture—a challenge that has persisted for over a thousand years. Recently, I shared with a wise friend how my film Pomegranate won over 40 international awards, yet none came from the Arab world or Arab American festivals. Fanatic groups even canceled a book talk about the film, attempting to silence it.

He shared a story about being sent to China to introduce philanthropy. The effort failed because 1) there were no tax incentives, and 2) giving money freely was seen as haughty. His point was clear: some cultural dynamics are deeply ingrained and may never change.

From outside my community, there were struggles as well. Publishers encouraged ethnic writing and diversity, but only if it fit their stereotypical narratives. One editor from a major publishing house even told me, “You’re a great writer. If you write about honor killing, you’d be a bestseller.” I refused, explaining that I didn’t know anything about honor killings and wouldn’t compromise my integrity to fit a marketable trope. Instead, I stayed true to authentic stories about my people and culture—stories often hidden due to fear and shame.

The film industry, like publishing, has also perpetuated stereotypes about the Arab world. Stories featuring Arabs often focus on terrorism, oppression, or victimized women. Producers have shown little interest in authentic or nuanced portrayals of the community. Instead of embracing diversity, the industry often reinforces narrow, one-dimensional narratives.

While the road has been difficult, I’m proud to have remained committed to this truth, which has paved the way for a fulfilling and impactful career. It’s a testament that hard work and perseverance pays off.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a storyteller who uses various mediums—books, poetry, films, and podcasts—to share the stories of one of history’s most fascinating and resilient peoples: the Chaldeans, who have survived for over 7,000 years. In 2004, my book The Feminine Art was released, becoming the first Chaldean American novel ever published. At the time, I was unaware that most of the world didn’t know who the modern Chaldeans were. Many believed we only existed in ancient history, mentioned in the Bible or history books, as if we were extinct.

I am most proud of staying true to who I am, despite countless rejections and obstacles. By the Grace of God, I’ve managed to achieve what many might have thought impossible. I’ve made two feature films that together have won over 50 international awards. One of them, Pomegranate, is the first Iraqi American feature narrative and it’s led by women talent, telling a story that required immense courage to tell.

What sets me apart is my determination and resilience. I didn’t let the naysayers stop me, nor did I let the lack of funding, the challenges of being a wife and mother of two beautiful children, or caring for my beloved mother deter me. Alongside these personal responsibilities, I also balanced the demands of a full-time job as the executive director of the Chaldean Cultural Center, where I worked to preserve and amplify the stories of our heritage.

Additionally, I’ve taken on leadership roles outside my community. I serve as an Ambassador to the Authors Guild of America and have worked with Lynn V. Andrews Productions. Lynn was my former teacher, and after her passing, I have continued her legacy alongside other graduates of her programs. These roles have allowed me to connect with a broader audience and contribute to the preservation and celebration of storytelling and spiritual teachings on a larger scale.

Despite these challenges and responsibilities, I pursued my calling, made my dream a reality, and did so while nurturing and prioritizing my home, family, career, and the communities I serve. For that, I am deeply proud.

Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
People can support, collaborate, or work with me in a variety of ways:

Watch and Support My Film:
My film Pomegranate is available to watch in 25 countries on Amazon Prime, Apple TV and other streaming channels. You can show your support by watching the film and rating it on IMDb and Amazon Prime. This is a great way to counteract negativity while supporting women and stories that empower everyone! Here is the link for more information https://www.freestyledigitalmedia.tv/film/pomegranate/

Join My Tribe:
Many people reach out to learn from me, and while I love helping, my time is limited. That’s why I’ve created opportunities for connection and learning through The Path of Consciousness Spiritual and Writing Community, which you can find on Meetup.com. https://www.meetup.com/the-path-of-consciousness/

I host an online workshop called “Writing Ritual” on the second Wednesday of every month at 11 AM, sponsored by the Authors Guild. Check out updates on my Meetup.com page.

Upcoming events include:
A half-day writing retreat at the Colombiere Conference and Retreat Center on Saturday, May 3, 2025. Hosted by the Authors Guild of America

A retreat titled “Self-Love and Spiritual Opulence”, hosted by Lynn V. Andrews Productions, from May 29 to June 1, 2025. Learn more and register here: Spring Gathering 2025 in Michigan. Click here to learn more https://lynnandrews.com/pages/spring-gathering-2025-in-michigan-details

One-on-One Coaching:
I also offer personalized one-on-one coaching sessions. You can learn more about this on my website: www.weamnamou.com.

The best way to connect and learn is through active participation—by being part of a community that fosters growth and creative expression. I’d love for you to join me on this journey!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://weamnamou.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weamnamou/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/weamnamou/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/weamnamou/
• Twitter: https://x.com/weamnamou
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@weamnamou-8991
• Other: https://thepathofconsciousness.com/blog/