Noble Honorary Mentions: Malala

Writer: Kawthar Alasaad

“One child, one teacher, one pen, and one book can change the world.” - Malala.

Malala Yousafzai is an incredible inspiration to women everywhere, one that changed the education system for women globally. Malala is a remarkable activist known for using her voice to speak up for women's education in Pakistan. Khushal Girls High School and College in the city of Mingora is where Malala studied before the right to education was removed from women all over Pakistan by the Taliban. On September 1, 2008, when Malala was only eleven years old, she gave her first speech, "How Dare the Taliban Take Away My Basic Right to Education?" Malala continued to appear on the news and TV, even appearing in a documentary with The New York Times. This increased attention is what led to the tragic incident of Malala being shot in the face by a Taliban member. Malala was placed in a coma following the tragic incident and was fled to Birmingham to be rescued.

Malala continued to attend school in England after receiving the Nobel Prize, graduating from the University of Oxford in 2020, while using her increased public profile to draw attention to global human rights issues. Malala's influence was highly impacted, so much so that in 2013, Malala won the United Nations Human Rights Prize, which is awarded every five years. Malala has stood up for the education of all women, constantly making change and history and continuing to be a voice for the voiceless.

Malala's advocacy for women's education has inspired millions worldwide. Her efforts have led to the establishment of the Malala Fund, which works towards providing quality education to girls in developing countries. She also produced a documentary; He Named Me Malala, that was Oscar-nominated. Her courage and determination have made her a symbol of hope for those fighting for gender equality and human rights.

“So let us wage a global struggle against illiteracy, poverty, and terrorism, and let us pick up our books and pens. They are our most powerful weapons.” -Malala.