Autumn brings a mix of bittersweet emotions, and it seems to have touched Malala Yousufzai as well. The activist shared seasonal photos on Instagram, showcasing the vibrant oranges and golds of fall amid crumbling leaves and pumpkins.
In her caption, the Nobel Peace Prize laureate reflected, “I’ve always felt at home in nature. As a child in Swat Valley, I loved opening my window each morning to view the snow-capped mountains and inhale the pine-scented air. In college, I spent countless sunrises and sunsets by the banks of Oxford’s River Cherwell.”
Malala also shared, “This week, I enjoyed my own Muslim Girl Autumn in New Hampshire, taking long walks through the woods and appreciating the beauty of the changing seasons. I always pray for a world where everyone can connect with nature, free from wars and violence, and instead find peace.”
Earlier this month, Malala’s organization, Malala Fund, announced emergency grants for charities aiding children in Gaza. “For nearly a year, I’ve thought daily about the Palestinian children suffering under relentless Israeli bombings,” she wrote. “They have faced unimaginable horror and trauma as their homes and schools have been destroyed and their loved ones lost.” She added, “I stand with millions worldwide demanding an immediate and lasting ceasefire. Today, I am directing another $300,000 in emergency funding from the Malala Fund to three charities supporting Palestinian children.”
Malala detailed that the funding would help humanitarian and social justice organizations provide essentials like food, clean water, and healthcare to children affected by war. It would also support parents in need of essential services for raising their children, aid in their psychological recovery from trauma, and offer educational support. Additionally, the funds would assist with the relocation process, including building shelters for displaced families.
“Please take a moment to learn about the vital work of these charities, support them if you can, and continue advocating for a ceasefire,” she urged. Malala’s philanthropic efforts have primarily focused on the educational empowerment of those denied opportunities, particularly girls in Pakistan. Recently, she has expanded her efforts to assist the war-torn population of Gaza, where numerous educational institutions have been destroyed, as reported by Al Jazeera.
