“I vowed then that I would never partake in badal.”

As a young girl, Malala rejects the practice of revenge outlined in the Pashtunwali code that informs their lives. The fear of disappointing her beloved, ethical father influences her vow. Malala’s practice of peaceful dissent has roots in this early decision. 

“The sights and sounds in their world were different.”

Malala is more interested in listening to her father and his friends’ political conversations than to women’s talk, revealing her curiosity and interest in the world outside Mingora. That her father allows her to join the men’s discussions shows both his indulgent love of Malala and his acceptance of women’s intellectual and cultural equality—making him a rarity in the patriarchal Pashtun culture.

“The school was my world, and my world was the school.” 

Education is in Malala’s blood. The daughter of a teacher, she learns its importance at an early age. Malala thrives on learning and takes pride in her academic achievements—and in earning her father’s praise.