From being a survivor of the Taliban’s atrocities to receiving the Nobel Peace Prize and now being a women’s rights and education advocate, Malala Yousafzai’s journey has touched the lives of many across the globe. I am one such lucky person, who had the absolute privilege to meet Malala at Oxford University in September 2017.

Her soft yet powerful presence could be felt in the entire room. Simply standing next to her, made me feel empowered and humbled all at the same time. Hearing her speak about her experiences, I wondered how at the tender age of 20, Malala already possesses such an immense amount of courage to work for what she believes in. But then I got reminded of her first UN address where she said, “the terrorists thought that they would change our aims and stop our ambitions, but nothing changed in my life except this: weakness, fear and hopelessness died. Strength, power and courage were born.” 

Malala has used her strength, power and courage to fight for women’s rights and education and has even urged world leaders to change their policies. Malala has inspired me with every step she has taken in the direction of education for all. Being in the field myself, youth like Malala give me hope that our there is a better tomorrow for the world. Malala has proved to be the torchbearer for many struggling for their basic right to education. Instead of asking others to make way for her, she made way for herself and many others.

Meeting Malala inspired me to strive for better each day and has given me a new lease on life. I am more determined than ever to make a positive change in this world, in whichever way I can!