Mariam's life before her encounter with the imperial court is shrouded in mystery. Born in the late 1700s, she was believed to have been born with her unusual condition. Her early life was marked by poverty and hardship, with her family struggling to make ends meet. It is said that Mariam's parents, fearing societal rejection and ridicule, left her behind while traveling to neighboring villages, in an attempt to make a living.

Undeterred by her circumstances, Mariam took it upon herself to find work and make a living. She traveled extensively throughout Ethiopia, earning a reputation as a skilled healer and spiritual guide. Her unusual appearance and remarkable spiritual abilities made her a sought-after figure, attracting followers from various walks of life.