by Carol-Lyn McKelvey, FAUSA & AIWC Cologne
In 2015, when I first read I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai, I was overwhelmed by the enormity of it. I knew little about Pakistan, bo
th geographically and politcally, and I had yet to fully realize the barriers and obstacles for millions of girls seeking educational opportunities in various areas of the world. Malala passionately describes the beauty of her homeland, while also unflinchingly addressing the culture and politics that keep girls out of school in this same homeland she loves. Her father’s dogged pursuit of educating girls often (and sometimes controversially) put Malala in the spotlight at a young age. Although she ended up embracing these challenges due to her love of learning, it was still a shock to the world when the Taliban attacked her school bus and shot her. I Am Malala is a testament to perseverance and a study in the complexity of loving a country that doesn’t always love you back.
Since the publication of her book, Malala as been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize and has founded The Malala Fund. For more information about her journey, you can check out the New York Times documentary and backstory. If you are interested in learning more about Malala’s father, Ziauddin, check out this Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace and Security interview and article.
