"She is powerful, but she is also a sweet, creative, loving little girl who wants to help others and work for others, " Jolie said.

CNN: Malala's first grant will educate 40 girls

Driven by the powerful "gift" she had first become aware of as a nine-year-old girl living in the lap of luxury, she chose to work as a nursery nurse and has worked with children ever since.

BBC: NEWS | UK | Angel of Peckham's gift of giving