A Meet and Greet with Malala
As a member of the “Because I’m a Girl” Speakers Bureau, Anna Croxon ’20, attends monthly workshops to learn more about issues that affect girls worldwide and human rights, while honing her public speaking skills. An accomplished debater at CDS, Anna’s decision to become part of this global initiative striving to end gender inequality and promote girls’ rights is a perfect fit.
When Anna first heard the lineup of speakers who would be attending the Art of Leadership for Women Conference held in Toronto earlier this month, she set about doing whatever it took to be there. Among the speakers were Rona Ambrose, Dr. Annie McKee and Malala Yousafzai.
Through her volunteer work, Anna learned she could submit answers to some questions about gender equality in an effort to obtain one of 25 general admission tickets or a special platinum ticket, which included a private meet and greet with the Nobel Peace Prize recipient, Malala.
More than 200 young woman submitted their answers vying for one of these coveted tickets to the Toronto event, and to Anna’s delight she was awarded one of the three platinum tickets.
“It was so amazing to be able to meet and speak to someone who I have admired for so long,” said Anna. “Being able to have these conversations further motivates me to improve gender equality in and around my community. These opportunities remind me to keep pushing for what I believe in, and the ability my voice has to make active change. Malala is such a humble person, and although the time I spent with her was short, it was a conversation I’ll never forget.”
According to Anna, the words of all the conference speakers were incredibly inspiring. There were also plenty of opportunities to network and meet likeminded individuals. But without a doubt, meeting a young woman like Malala, who has made such a lasting impact on the world stage and become a role model for young woman everywhere by standing up for what she believes in, was the absolute highlight.
She will never forget hearing her words firsthand:
“We realize the importance of our voices only when we are silenced.” Malala Yousafzai
“We realize the importance of our voices only when we are silenced.” Malala Yousafzai
Land Acknowledgment
The Country Day School wishes to recognize and acknowledge the land on which the school operates. Our nearest Indigenous Nations are now the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and the Chippewas of Georgina Island. The Dish with One Spoon Wampum covenant is often cited as an example of the shared responsibility for caring for these lands among the Huron-Wendat, Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee peoples who would call these their traditional territories. CDS respects the relationship with these lands and recognizes that our connection to this land can be strengthened by our continued relationship with all First Nations, by acknowledging our shared responsibility to respect and care for the land and waters for future generations.
School Information
13415 Dufferin Street King, Ontario L7B 1K5
(905) 833-1220
communications@cds.on.ca
admissions@cds.on.ca
Founded in 1972, The Country Day School is a co-educational private school offering programs in JK-12 and located on 100 acres north of Toronto in King.
(905) 833-1220
communications@cds.on.ca
admissions@cds.on.ca
Founded in 1972, The Country Day School is a co-educational private school offering programs in JK-12 and located on 100 acres north of Toronto in King.
