I speak not for myself, but so those without a voice can be heard. Those who have fought for their rights. Their right to live in peace. Their right to be treated with dignity. Their right to equality of opportunity. Their right to be educated.

Our men think earning money and ordering around others is where power lies. They don't think power is in the hands of the woman who takes care of everyone all day long, and gives birth to their children.

The Taliban could take our pens and books, but they couldn’t stop our minds from thinking.

I am not here to speak against the Taliban. I'm here to speak up for the right of every child.

I am convinced Socialism is the only answer.

Education had been a great gift for him [Ziauddin]. He believed that lack of education was the root of all the Pakistan's problems. Ignorance allowed politicians to fool people and bad administrators to be reelected. He believed schooling should be available for all, rich and poor, boys and girls.

My father always says that heroism is in the Pashtun DNA.