Malala reflects on the first year of her digital publication and newsletter for girls.

I was 11 years old when I first shared my story.

On a blog for the BBC, I wrote how the Taliban banned girls in my community from going to school. How the sound of machine guns would wake me up at night. How I missed having picnics in the green hills of Swat Valley.

I wrote something no one else could write: my experience.

I created Assembly as a space for girls like you to talk about your talents, your education, the challenges you face and your hopes for the future, just like I did. And based on the emails, DMs, comments and posts we receive from readers, I know how much you needed a platform like this.

Since we launched Assembly one year ago, our readership has expanded to reach more than 200 countries and territories. We’ve published work by girls and women from over 70 countries and many of our articles appear in multiple languages. This digital publication is for girls, by girls — it is a testament to the amazing potential of the next generation of female leaders. As we head into our second year, I am excited to see how Assembly continues to grow.

I know there is a girl reading this message today with an amazing story to share. We want to hear from you! Visit our submission form to send us your ideas or tell us what is on your mind.

I hope to see your name in our next issue.