A courageous advocate for girls' education, particularly in her native Swat Valley, who survived a Taliban assassination attempt and continues to inspire global change through her activism and writing.
Malala Yousafzai is a Pakistani female education activist and the youngest Nobel Peace Prize laureate in history, known for her courageous stand against the oppressive Taliban regime in her native Swat Valley, advocating for the education of women and children.
Born on July 12, 1997, in the Swat Valley of Pakistan, Malala was raised in a family of education activists. Her father, Ziauddin Yousafzai, was an outspoken advocate for girls' education and ran a school in their hometown. Malala drew inspiration from her father's humanitarian work and was also influenced by prominent figures such as Abdul Ghaffar Khan, Barack Obama, and Benazir Bhutto.
In early 2009, at just 11 years old, Malala began writing a blog for the BBC Urdu under the pseudonym Gul Makai, detailing her life under Taliban rule and advocating for girls' education. The blog became a catalyst for international attention, and soon Malala was giving interviews and speaking out against the Taliban's efforts to ban girls from attending school.
Malala's activism didn't go unnoticed. In 2011, she received Pakistan's first National Youth Peace Prize, and in 2012, she was nominated for the International Children's Peace Prize by Desmond Tutu. Her bravery and determination earned her recognition as one of Time magazine's 100 most influential people in the world in 2013.
On October 9, 2012, Malala's life was forever changed when she was shot by a Taliban gunman while on a bus in Swat District. The assassination attempt sparked international outrage and solidified Malala's position as a symbol of resistance against oppression.
Malala's remarkable recovery and continued activism inspired millions worldwide. She co-authored the bestselling memoir I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban and established the Malala Fund, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing education to girls in countries where it is denied or difficult to access.
In 2014, Malala became the youngest Nobel Peace Prize laureate in history, recognized for her struggle against the suppression of children and young people and for the right of all children to education. Malala's advocacy has grown into a global movement, inspiring girls and women around the world to stand up for their right to education.
Malala Yousafzai's courage and determination have inspired a generation of young people to stand up for their rights. Her advocacy has sparked a global movement, with millions of people around the world demanding access to quality education. As a testament to her enduring impact, Malala remains a beacon of hope for girls' education and a powerful symbol of resistance against oppression.
Born in 1918
A South African lawyer and politician who fought against apartheid, becoming the country's first black president and a symbol of racial reconciliation, earning a Nobel Peace Prize. He's a beacon of hope and freedom.
96 Years Old
A prominent leader in the civil rights movement, advocating for racial equality and social justice through nonviolent means, leaving a lasting impact on American history.
Born in 1869
Indian freedom fighter, activist, and philosopher who led India to independence from British rule through non-violent civil disobedience, inspiring civil rights movements worldwide.
Born in 1860
A pioneering social worker and peace activist, she founded Hull House, a settlement that provided social services to immigrants and the working poor, and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1931.
Born in 1858
A leading figure in the British suffragette movement, fighting for women's right to vote through militant tactics and public demonstrations. Her activism led to significant social and political change.
Born in 1913
Refused to give up her seat on a Montgomery, Alabama bus to a white person, sparking the Montgomery Bus Boycott, a pivotal event in the Civil Rights Movement.
81 Years Old
A prominent civil rights activist, academic, and author who has been a vocal advocate for racial and gender equality, and an icon of black feminism. Known for her work on prison reform and her involvement in the Black Panther Party.
91 Years Old
A pioneering figure in the feminist movement, co-founding the Women's Media Center to promote women's voices and representation in media. Known for her tireless advocacy and inspiring leadership.