Malala Yousafzai shares her ‘swiftie journey’ after attending Taylor Swift concert
PTC News Desk: Pakistani activist Malala Yousafzai recently marked a personal milestone by attending her first-ever concert, a show by Taylor Swift at Wembley Stadium on August 17. She took to social media to share her excitement, posting a series of photos from the event and reflecting on her journey as a devoted Swiftie. Malala also used the occasion to highlight the profound impact music has had on her life.
Accompanied by her husband, Asser Malik, and a few close friends, Malala shared enchanting pictures from the concert, as well as a nostalgic throwback photo with her best friend. Her post recounted a cherished childhood memory connected to Taylor Swift’s music. Malala wrote, “In Swat, music made my friends and me feel confident and free. And one day I hope we will live in a world where every girl will be able to enjoy music and live out her wildest dreams.”
In her heartfelt caption, Malala reminisced about a field trip she took during middle school in Swat Valley with her best friend, Moniba. She described their excitement and joy as they explored a hidden waterfall in the lush mountains, a time when they could finally return to school and enjoy being outdoors. Malala recalled, “Having lived through a time when music and art were banned, music felt like a gift. Moniba and I found the highest rock we could, climbed on top of it, and announced to all of our classmates and teachers that we were going to perform our new favorite song, ‘Love Story.’ We sang with all our hearts, soaking up every moment of joy. That’s where my Swiftie journey began.”
She expressed her awe at attending Taylor Swift’s concert, stating, “It feels magical that my first-ever proper concert would be to see @TaylorSwift, singing along to every song surrounded by friends.”
Malala concluded her post with a somber reflection on the current state of affairs in Afghanistan, where the Taliban’s return has led to a ban on music and restricted opportunities for girls and women. “Three years ago, the Taliban regained power in Afghanistan. Once again, music no longer plays on the streets, and girls and women are barred from school, work, and public life,” she wrote. “In Swat, music made my friends and me feel confident and free. And one day I hope we will live in a world where every girl will be able to enjoy music and live out her wildest dreams.”
Taylor Swift’s Wembley Stadium performance comes shortly after the cancellation of her three shows in Vienna due to a terroristic threat. Swift is currently concluding the European leg of her Eras Tour, which began in March 2023 at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.
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