Page 29 - District 20-K1 Kings & Queens September 2021 E-Newsletter

Highlights

AN UNPRECEDENTED

VIRTUAL INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION

Thank you Malala, for an inspiring keynote message

MALALA YOUSAFZAI
THE KEYNOTE SPEAKER
(Abridged Version)
With the support of her father, this young Pakistani girl began her crusade as an activist for girls’ education. At age 17, she
became the youngest Nobel Peace Prize Laureate.
In a free-flowing conversation with Soulaima Gourani, she reaffirmed that her primary goal is to uplift the voices of
underserved girls by advocating publicly for their education. She wants to speak her truth about distorted cultural values
that instill fear in girls and women who contradict existing societal norms. Regardless of ethnicity or geographical
residence, all women and men can co-exist in harmony with equal opportunity for self - improvement through education.
Especially for females, education is an economic investment that enhances family and community life.
Malala argues that lack of education is directly connected to gender inequality. With adequate educational opportunities,
social and economic change will improve the global environment.
The Malala Fund is an international non-profit organization that continues to campaign for girls to receive free, safe, quality
education. In addition to gender discrimination, related causes include child marriage, children struggling to survive poverty
and child trafficking. The organization also holds educational leaders accountable for ensuring that instructional systems
and practices remain individualized and of the highest standards.
With more than 130 million girls’ education disrupted by the global pandemic, the need for speedy upgrade and restoration is
even more critical. An important “take away” from the Pandemic is the pivotal potential of technology usage in the
classroom. Going forward, governments must streamline budgets to ensure equal access, availability and distribution to all
socio-economic communities.
Commission to the Lions and Leos of the world:
“Together, we can create a world where all girls, especially the most vulnerable can learn and lead”.
“Education is a life-long process. There are no age limitations”
“Stay committed to your mission and never be afraid to take risks”
“Listen to the wisdom from young people who present optimistic ideologies”

“Remain open to resolving unconscious biases”
“Address the impact of your words, actions and even your silence!”
Reported by Lion Annette Hinkson-Smith