Age: 17
Place of Birth: Mingora, Pakistan
Occupation: Women’s Rights and Female Education Activist
Inspirational Quote: “One child, one teacher, one pen, and one book can change the world.”
Who is she?
Malala Yousafzai has, all before the age of 18, been named one of TIME Magazine’s most influential people, released her own autobiography titled I am Malala, created an international charity for the education of girls, and become the youngest person ever to win the Nobel Peace Prize.
She was born in Pakistan, where her family ran a chain of schools, and was subjected to the harsh rule and occupation of the Taliban. Often, she and many other girls were not allowed to attend school. At the age of 11, she began writing an anonymous blog for BBC about her experiences with the Taliban occupation, and expressed her desire to attend school. She gave speeches across Pakistan, and became a recognized activist. Gradually, she gained international attention and publicly advocated for the right to female education. The Taliban targeted her, and on October 9th, 2012, Malala was shot in the head on a school bus. Thankfully, she survived, and has continued to advocate across the globe for women’s rights and education!
Why she’s amazing:
Malala is an inspiration to women and girls across the globe, empowering them to fight for their rights. We are lucky enough to attend college, and should use our education to help others. Malala is courageous, determined, and compassionate, and should inspire every one of us to stand up for what we believe in, no matter the odds against us!
“Women are powerful. Women are strong. Women can do anything. Come out and struggle for your rights; nothing can happen without your voice. Do not wait for me to do something for your rights. It’s your world, and you can change it.” – Malala Yousafzai
Read more about Malala and her mission at www.malala.org!