Congratulations, Malala!

I would like to add my voice to those congratulating Malala Yousafzai of Pakistan for winning the 2014 Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts to promote and protect girls’ rights to education. Seventeen-year-old Malala, who survived an assassination attempt by the Taliban in 2012, is the youngest person to ever win the Nobel Prize. She shares the prize with Kailalsh Satyarthi of India, another advocate for equal access to education and children’s rights.

You can read more of my thoughts about this heroic young woman here. A person of great courage, resilience and purpose, she inspires with her actions and words.

I truly believe the only way we can create global peace is through not only educating our minds, but our hearts and our souls.

One child, one teacher, one book and one pen, can change the world. Education is the only solution. Education first.

I think that the best way to solve problems and to fight is through dialogue, is through peaceful ways, but for me the best way to fight against terrorism and extremism is just a simple thing: educate the next generation.

Why shall I wait for someone else? Why shall I be looking to the government, to the army, that they would help us … for them to help me. Why don’t I raise my voice? Why don’t we speak up for our rights?

If you would like to find ways that you can join in the literacy movement, I encourage you to visit LitWorld, the wonderful organization that wants to help all children change the world with their words and stories.