Shiza Shahid: “There are no Superheroes, Just Us”

Shiza Shahid: “There are no Superheroes, Just Us” “There are no superheroes, just us. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for.” These powerful words came from Shiza Shahid at the TEDxMidAtlantic 2013 conference. The theme of the conference was “Start Now”, and conference organizers asked Shiza to be a featured speaker on the theme. Shiza shared three lessons that helped her begin her journey to becoming a successful social entrepreneur, and have shaped her life choices. The talk focuses on human connections, creating change in the world, and following your heart.The presentation is a powerful introduction to the story of Malala and Shiza’s friendship, from their first meeting to the origins of the Malala Fund. Shiza’s voice is heavy with sorrow as she recalls the moment she learned that Malala had been shot. Yet, her sorrow turns to anger and then hope as she recounts how she realized that across the world people were protesting that a girl had been shot for going to school, and were praying and hoping for Malala’s recovery. Shiza ends her speech by saying “I am Malala”, and explaining how powerful of a statement that is to her.

Shiza will be the keynote speaker for the Go Big Read program, and will be giving a public speech on October 27th at Union South’s Varsity Hall. This TEDxMidAtlantic talk is an indication of the enthusiasm and eloquence that Shiza will be bringing to her speech.