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Malala's Journey: From Activism to Personal Growth

New York, USAThu Oct 23 2025

Malala Yousafzai, known globally for her advocacy for girls' education, has shared more about her personal life in her new memoir. At 28, she's showing the world a different side of herself—one that's funny, messy, and human.

A Regular Person

She's not just the brave activist who survived a Taliban attack; she's also a regular person who enjoys dancing, climbing, and even smoking weed with friends.

College Struggles

In college, Malala struggled to balance her activism with her studies. She missed classes for speaking events and even traveled to different countries for her work. She almost failed her first-year exams, which made her realize she needed to ask for help. This experience taught her the importance of self-care and seeking support.

Mental Health Journey

Malala also opened up about her mental health. She had panic attacks and anxiety after a flashback of the Taliban attack. She was diagnosed with PTSD and anxiety seven years after the incident. This experience made her realize the importance of mental health support, especially for those growing up in war zones.

Love and Relationships

When it comes to love, Malala had her share of dating mishaps. She once dated a "mysterious" boy who turned out to be a rumored drug dealer. It didn't work out, but it taught her that love could be a part of her life too. She met her husband, Asser Malik, through friends while go-karting. They had a long-distance relationship during COVID, and she was initially hesitant about marriage. She did research and talked to her friends and mom before deciding to tie the knot. Now, she's grateful for her marriage and the new hobbies her husband has introduced her to.

A Reminder for Everyone

Malala's story is a reminder that even the strongest people need support. She's not just an activist; she's also a person who's learning and growing, just like everyone else.

questions

    How did Malala's friends help her through her panic attacks and anxiety after smoking weed?
    What was the funniest moment Malala had while go-karting with her future husband?
    Could the Metropolitan Police officers assigned to Malala have been there for reasons other than her safety?

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