AN INSPIRATIONAL poem about Pakistan’s Malala Yousafzai won Penrith Selective High School student Wanda Kuai first place in the Footpath Library poetry competition.
Wanda Kuai receives her award from the Footpath Library’s ambassador program co-ordinator, Meredith Jaffe. More than 50 students entered the annual national competition, which this year centred around courage.
Wanda, 13, said she tried to continue Malala’s message of hope, education and inspiration to all women seeking an education. “I’ve always liked writing so I thought I’d try my hand at poetry,” she said.
“I wanted to write about Malala because I was inspired by her story. I read her biography, I Am Malala, and thought she was one of the most courageous women I’ve ever heard of.
“She affected so many women around the world and reminded me that education is important to every gender, race and religion.”
Wanda said she was very happy to write the poem and felt humbled to win.
“I didn’t expect it at all. I just like writing and I chose something that meant something to me,” she said.
