On October 14, 2025, youth journalists from KidScoop Media had the unique opportunity to interview education activist Malala Yousafzai via Zoom. The focus was her new memoir, Finding My Way, which chronicles her experiences as a student at Oxford University.
Finding My Way explores Malala’s journey through her university years, highlighting the joys and challenges she faced. The memoir delves into balancing her education advocacy alongside academic responsibilities, her evolving understanding of mental health and self-care, and personal aspects such as falling in love. It offers readers an intimate look at her life and perspectives, enriching the genre of memoirs.
“I have come against criticism, comments my whole life. And you know, I have now grown through it… You know, I try to take any positive um, you know, good recommendation that can be helpful, but then there’s a lot that is not helpful at all and doesn’t add anything to the mission that I am focused on. So, sometimes, the best way is to avoid it.”
In both the book and the interview, Malala reflected on growing up under intense public attention as an advocate for girls' education, emphasizing how she has learned to focus on constructive feedback while disregarding unproductive criticism.
Her story provides a compelling narrative about resilience, growth, and dedication to a cause beyond herself.
Malala’s memoir and interview reveal the complexities of maintaining activism, education, and personal well-being under public scrutiny, delivering a powerful message of growth and focus.