MALALA YOUSAFZAI
BACKGROUND INFO
Born on 12 July 1997 in Pakistan’s Swat Valley, Malala Yousafzai became an international symbol for the fight for girls’ education after being shot on 9 October 2012 for opposing Taliban restrictions on female education. She survived the attack and became an advocate for the millions of girls denied a formal education worldwide.
HER MISSION & STATEMENTS
Malala is now a world-famous for her advocacy, as well as her humility throughout her experience. She's been quoted on statements such as, "I tell my story not because it is unique, but because it is the story of many girls." This year she has graduated from Oxford University, and intends to continue to fight for the rights of girls all over the world who are being held back from the same educational opportunities as young boys. "With more than 130 million girls out of school today, there is more work to be done. I hope you will join my fight for education and equality. Together, we can create a world where all girls can learn and lead."
RELATION TO BURKA AVENGER
During the time when Malala made her speech at the UN, Burka Avenger aired. It can be argued then, that the show was designed not only to highlight the idea of educational injustice, but also incorporates many themes from Malala's speech. For example, during her speech, Malala stated,“Let us pick up our books and our pens. They are our most powerful weapons." If you look at the episode attached on the previous page, Burka Avenger is seen making almost the exact same statement. It is very apparent that the show draws on Malala's experience to further push the importance of education for all.
