Ep 3. Malala Yousafzai

My Next Guest Needs No Introduction With David Letterman is a talk show that features the veteran TV host interviewing notable personalities from various fields. In season 1 episode 3, David Letterman sits down with Malala Yousafzai, the youngest Nobel Peace Prize laureate and an advocate for female education.

David starts the episode by describing Malala's story, from her upbringing in Pakistan to the horrific incident where she was shot by the Taliban on her way to school. He notes that despite her young age, she has become a global figure and an inspiration to many.

Malala shares her journey from being a young girl who loved going to school to becoming a girls' education activist. She talks about the challenges she faced and the support she received from her parents. She also reveals how she managed to continue her education even after the Taliban attack and why she believes education is a fundamental right for everyone.

David and Malala discuss her non-profit organization, The Malala Fund. The organization's mission is to ensure every girl has access to 12 years of free, safe, quality education. They talk about the difficulties the Fund has faced, especially in countries like Nigeria where Boko Haram has targeted girls' schools. Malala also shares her thoughts on the current state of girls' education around the world and what needs to be done to improve it.

The conversation turns towards politics, with Malala weighing in on topics such as immigration and women's rights. She speaks about her meeting with President Obama and the surreal experience of being singled out by him for her bravery and activism.

David also touches on Malala's personal life, asking her about her interests and hobbies. He finds out that she loves reading books, especially those written by Nobel laureates, and that she is a fan of the Harry Potter series. Malala also reveals that she wants to go back to Pakistan someday, but only when it is safe for her to do so.

In the latter half of the episode, David takes Malala to Oxford University, where she is currently studying. They visit her dorm room, where David quips about its narrow size, and ask her about her experience as a student. Malala talks about how moving to the UK was a big adjustment but also how she enjoys being able to learn freely.

The episode ends with David asking Malala what she would like to say to people who are inspired by her story. Malala gives a poignant answer, emphasizing the importance of standing up for what you believe in, even in the face of adversity.

Overall, the episode offers an insightful look into Malala's life and her work as a girls' education advocate. David's respectful and engaging interview style allows Malala's personality and message to shine through. The episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in gender issues, education, and activism.