>>> there was a powerful display of perseverance and courage today by a young woman who's become a role model for children around the world. her name is malala. she's become known to the world after the taliban tried to assassinate her and after her heroic recovery she's devoted her efforts to ensure a safe education for girls . her story tonight from nbc's amnan awaz, who has covered her story from the start. happy birthday to you

>> reporter: a birthday on a world stage.

>> so here i stand. one girl among many.

>> reporter: at a special u.n. assembly for malala yousafzai. but today was a day that almost didn't come.

>> let me repeat the words. the taliban never wanted her to hear. happy 16th birthday, malala.

>> reporter: it was just nine months ago the taliban tried to kill her for promoting education for girls . shooting her in the head as she left school in pakistan. her story and survival ignited a global movement.

>> weakness, fear, and hopelessness died. strength, fervor, and courage was born. the thought that the bullet would silence us, but they failed. and out of that silence came thousands of voices.

>> reporter: in fact millions have signed her petition to provide education for every child around the world.

>> she has experienced the discrimination. she has suffered because of her beliefs. and she has fought back.

>> reporter: hard to remember, she's just a teenager.

>> she was more worried about her geography homework than her speech.

>> is that right?

>> yeah. and i was happy for that. this is good.

>> reporter: still a schoolgirl but a powerful voice for countless others.

>> one child, one teacher, one book, and one pen can change the world .

>> reporter: amnan nawaz, nbc news, new