Many in the world know Malala Yousafzai’s
story; but many do not.
It is thus important to tell Malala’s story
– again, and again, and again – until all
people know the importance of educating
girls. It is important to tell her story – again,
and again, and again – so people
understand why what would seem to be an
obvious goal is not. And it is important to
tell her story – again, and again, and again –
most particularly now, when the world once
again experiences the horrors of war brought
on by ideological conformity, because her
story of personal strength, courage, and commitment has served and continues to serve as inspiration to those who embrace the notion of dignity for all.
The First Part of Her Story
Malala was born in Mingora, Pakistan, on 12 July 1997. Her father, Ziauddin Yousafzai, was a teacher and ran a school for girls. As such, he understood the importance of educating women and wanted the most for his daughter. Clearly, these values were instilled in his daughter; and Malala has noted how she loved school.
Malala’s life was soon to change, however. In 2008, the Taliban took control of the town in which she lived. They banned many activities, one of which was that girls could attend school. At the age of 11, Malala had to leave school not knowing when she might return.
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