From Student to Global Advocate
Malala Yousafzai was born on July 12, 1997, in Mingora, in Pakistan’s Swat Valley. Her father was a teacher who believed strongly in education, especially for girls. Malala loved books and school and dreamed of becoming a doctor. Her home was full of talk about learning and hope for a better future.
When a militant group called the Taliban gained power in her region, life changed. They said girls should not go to school. Some schools were closed, and families were threatened. At just 11 years old, Malala began writing an online diary under a different name. For the BBC, she described life under the Taliban and explained why school mattered to her.
Her words reached people around the world. She appeared on TV and spoke in public about the right to learn. But speaking out also made her a target. On October 9, 2012, while riding a bus home, a gunman attacked her. Malala was shot in the head. She was only 15.
The world was shocked. Doctors in Pakistan and then in the United Kingdom worked to save her. After a long recovery, Malala did not stay silent. She grew even more determined to support education for every child, especially girls who were being kept from school.
In 2013, Malala published I Am Malala, her story of courage and survival. She gave a powerful speech at the United Nations, saying, “One child, one teacher, one book, one pen can change the world.” With her father, she started the Malala Fund, which supports safe schools and learning opportunities in many countries.
In 2014, Malala became the youngest person ever to receive the Nobel Peace Prize, sharing it with Kailash Satyarthi, an activist from India. She later continued her own studies in the UK and graduated from Oxford University in 2020. Today, she speaks to leaders, visits schools, and encourages young people to stand up for their rights.
Malala Yousafzai is a symbol of courage and resilience. Her life shows that one voice—even a young voice—can challenge injustice and inspire change. Her message is simple and powerful: education brings dignity, freedom, and opportunity, and every child deserves it.
Vocabulary List
These words will help you understand the story. Tap the speaker to hear each word.
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education
Learning in school or through study and experience.
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militant
A person or group that uses force to reach goals.
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Taliban
An armed group that controlled parts of Afghanistan and Pakistan.
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diary
A daily record of thoughts, feelings, or events.
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anonymous
Without a name; identity is hidden.
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target
A person chosen for attack or criticism.
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recover
To get better after being sick or hurt.
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resilience
The ability to keep going after difficulty.
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advocate
A person who publicly supports a cause.
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United Nations
An international group of countries that work together.
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Malala Fund
An organization that supports girls’ education worldwide.
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Nobel Peace Prize
A top award given to people who work for peace.
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injustice
Unfair treatment; not giving people their rights.
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dignity
A sense of self-respect and value.
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opportunity
A good chance to do something.
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rights
Freedoms and protections that all people should have.
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courage
Bravery when facing fear or danger.
Comprehension Questions
Answer these questions about Malala Yousafzai and her work.
- Why did Malala begin writing an online diary, and what did she write about?
- What happened to Malala on October 9, 2012, and how did the world react?
- What is the purpose of the Malala Fund?
- Why did Malala receive the Nobel Peace Prize, and with whom did she share it?
- What message does Malala share about education, and how does she continue her advocacy today?