The News Agents Malala: “Would I have chosen a different life?“
Nov 6, 2025
Malala Yousafzai, a Pakistani education activist and the youngest Nobel Peace Prize winner, shares her journey from a young activist to a global advocate. She discusses her new book, reflecting on the challenges of balancing activism with personal life, including the struggle to make friends in college and cope with public scrutiny. Malala addresses the dire situation for Afghan girls under Taliban rule and urges the importance of women's rights in global discussions. She candidly reflects on trauma and how love helped her heal, all while maintaining her commitment to education advocacy.
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From Playful Child To Young Activist
- Malala recounts becoming an activist at a young age and missing a normal childhood with friends and play.
- She describes college as a brief window to be herself and actively sought many friendships and societies to make up for lost time.
Main Breadwinner While Studying
- Malala explains she became the primary financial supporter after moving to the UK and relied on book and speaking income to help her family.
- She balanced fundraising, advocacy and studies while seeking academic support later in college.
Mental Health Stigma And Delayed Help
- Malala reveals stigma around mental health in her family and culture and that she initially refused therapy during physical recovery.
- She later accepted therapy and was diagnosed with PTSD after flashbacks and anxiety triggered by college incidents.