"Islam says that you cannot stay ignorant, that you have to go and seek knowledge — no matter how hard it is, or how far you have to travel."

"I tell my story not because it is unique, but because it is the story of many girls."

"There are two powers in the world; one is the sword and the other is the pen. There is a third power stronger than both, that of women."

"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 childr…"

"The terrorists thought that they would change my aims and stop my ambitions, but nothing changed in my life except this: weakness, fear and hopelessness died. Strength, power and courage was born."