The Simone de Beauvoir Prize for Women’s Freedom was awarded to 15-year-old Malala Yousafzai, whose blog for the BBC earned her a bullet in the head from the Taliban in Pakistan. I found an amazing VIDEO of her story, and how she stood strong with her father in the Swat Valley living under the terror of the Taliban, who ultimately closed down the school.

Malala survived the shooting and was treated in a British hospital.

She plans to study law and become a politician, to work toward just policies in Pakistan and encourage friendship between her country and India.

This moving documentary by Adam B. Ellick tells the story of Malala and her father as they maintained their school despite facing dangerous odds.

Malala’s father, Ziauddin, calls openly for the Taliban to join peace talks, and for girls to be saved from unwanted marriage, rape and the denial of education. Mr. Yousafzai has been quoted in the press:

“In my part of the world, fathers are known by their sons. Daughters are very much neglected. I am one of the few fortunate fathers who is known by their daughter.” And in quoting a female Pakistani poet, Rabia Basri, he added, “There has been no lady prophet in history, and no woman has been stupid enough to claim to be God.”

Update: Malala’s father has been appointed as education attaché for the Pakistani government at the Pakistan consulate in England. Malala is now reading, writing and walking.

See Multimedia Content below for this heart-rending story full of promise:

Check out this Action Opportunities link for more on Malala and how your can help:

SUBSCRIBE ABOVE: Gateways Action Updates:
Receive monthly tips for mastering the creative process, plus links to the finest activities on the defining lines of career and global change!

Order here: FREE Podcast on the creative process.

PLEASE COMMENT BELOW:

Did media coverage on this story reach you in your home? What forces and fears cause a society to oppress girls’ education?

Like This Post? Please Share…