Nahida Sheikh Salam, born in 1922 in Slemani, was the eldest daughter of Sheikh Salam Sheikh Ahmad of Azeban. She received her early education in Slemani and Halabja, before continuing her studies in Baghdad, where she completed her teacher training.
In the field of education, Nahida made a significant impact as the first woman to open a kindergarten in Slemani. Her efforts in promoting literacy were complemented by her dedication to teaching national songs, which contributed to the cultural education of her community.
A committed political activist, Nahida began her involvement in politics in 1939 as a member of the Hiwa Party. Over the years, she joined several prominent political organizations, including the Right Path Party (1944), the Kurdistan Revival Society (1944), the Kurdish Liberation Party (1945), and the Kurdistan Democratic Party (1946). In 1960, she achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first woman to serve on the Central Committee of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP). She was also the founder and leader of the Kurdistan Women’s Union, further solidifying her role as a trailblazer for women in Kurdish politics.
In her personal life, Nahida was married to Nuri Shawais and was the mother of Dr. Roj Nuri Shawais. She was an active writer, contributing to newspapers and magazines under several pen names, including “Kurdish Girl,” “N.S.,” and “Mother of Roj.”
Due to her political activities, Nahida faced multiple exiles. In 1974, she was forced to seek refuge in Iran by the Baath Party. Following the September Revolution, she returned to Southern Kurdistan, continuing her political and social work.
Nahida Sheikh Salam passed away on November 28, 2006, in Erbil. She was buried in Seywan Hill in Slemani, alongside her father, leaving behind a legacy of courage, leadership, and dedication to the Kurdish cause.