Maryam Bukar Hassan Biography Introduction

Maryam Bukar Hassan, known as Alhanislam, is a distinguished Nigerian poet, spoken word artist, storyteller, and social entrepreneur. As a global peace advocate, she was appointed the first-ever United Nations Global Advocate for Peace in 2025. Through her powerful poetry and advocacy work, Maryam focuses on women’s rights, youth empowerment, and social justice, particularly in communities affected by conflict.

Basic Information

Early Life and Education

Maryam Bukar Hassan was born on December 25, 1996, in Biu, Borno State, Nigeria. Raised primarily in Kaduna State, she grew up in a family that fostered her passion for the arts. Her mother, Hauwa Maina, is a celebrated Hausa actress, while her father, Mr. Bukar Hassan, provided a strong support system for her pursuits.

Despite facing challenges in her formative years, including traumatic experiences related to conflict, Maryam excelled academically. She completed her secondary education at Uncle Bado Memorial College in Kaduna and later pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology at the University College, Ghana. This educational background allowed her to blend technical expertise with her artistic endeavors.

Career Overview

Maryam’s love for poetry developed at a young age, and she made her debut at 16 with her spoken word piece, “Violence Has No Religion.” The piece garnered over 3 million views on YouTube and highlighted her personal experiences with domestic violence.

Rise to Fame

Her unique ability to articulate complex emotions and experiences quickly propelled her into the limelight. Maryam has since performed at prestigious events, including TEDxBauchi, COP28, and the UN General Assembly, effectively using her platform to advocate for meaningful social change.

In July 2025, Maryam was appointed as the first-ever United Nations Global Advocate for Peace. Her focus centers on the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) and Youth, Peace, and Security (YPS) agendas. This role illustrates her commitment to leveraging the arts for advocacy and community engagement.

Social Entrepreneurship

As the founder of True My Voice, a youth empowerment initiative, Maryam has empowered over 1,000 young poets, with 60% being girls, through creative advocacy, earning her recognition as a UN SDG Awards finalist.

Her influence extends to various roles, including a storytelling consultant, a former campaign coordinator at Change.org in Nigeria, and a Gates Foundation Goalkeeper, where she has curated programs aimed at reducing maternal mortality and advancing gender equality.

In a remarkable achievement, she was the first Nigerian to carry the Olympic flag during the Opening Ceremony of the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics, as a flag bearer of peace.

Personal Life

Marriage and Family

Maryam Bukar Hassan is married to Uqumar Zuru, and together they have one child. Her marriage took place in 2023, marking a significant milestone in her life. Maryam’s background in a family of artists and her own experiences have shaped her commitment to using art as a tool for healing and advocacy.

Community Engagement

Maryam remains dedicated to her community and actively participates in initiatives aimed at fostering peace and empowerment, particularly among women and youth. Her upbringing and experiences drive her resolve to make a positive impact through her art.

Net Worth

As of 2026, Maryam Bukar Hassan’s estimated net worth is approximately $500,000. Her income stems from various engagements, including guest speaking at international forums, poetry performances, advocacy work at the United Nations, and brand endorsements. Additionally, her entrepreneurial efforts with True My Voice contribute to her financial success.

Conclusion

Maryam Bukar Hassan is a remarkable figure in the realms of poetry, activism, and social entrepreneurship. Her journey from a young girl in Borno State to a global advocate for peace exemplifies her dedication, talent, and resilience.

Through her artistic expressions and commitment to social justice, Maryam continues to inspire countless individuals, especially young women, to pursue their passions and advocate for meaningful change in their communities. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of art and activism in creating a more equitable world.

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