Laila Neihoum

Neihoum is recognised a leading woman in re-shaping the literature scene in Libya.[1] She was the first writer from there to be accepted to join the International Writers Programme at the University of Iowa.[2] She has published online and in print, including a collection of poems and a collection of short stories.[3] Her poetry reflects modern life in Libya, with poems like Butterflies of Meaning reflecting family and friendship.[4] Melting Sun discusses parental expectations.[5]

Neihoum has written about the Arab Spring and its impact on Libya.[6] She wrote O My Libya in 2011, to create a poetic manifesto for her country.[7] She is widely recognised in Libya and a leading contemporary writer[8] and is also commentator on the arts scene in Libya.[9]

Regular commentary and editorial published in outlets in Libya, including “Albait,” “Almouatamer,” “Almajal” and “Four Seasons.”[10] Neihoum also publishes literary criticism.[11] She has edited Tesenon a collection of young Libyan poets writing in the 1990s and a collections of global short stories Ofoq min lazaward (Azure Horizons).[11]