Malala's brother Khushal on fleeing the Taliban and facing the manosphere

Khushal Yousafzai, now 25, recounted to BBC Asian Network's Amber Haque the lasting effects of the attack on his sister, Malala, who was targeted by the Taliban for her advocacy for girls' education. The incident, which occurred when he was 12, left him with intense anger and a desire for revenge. He later moved to the UK to join his sister, who received treatment there.

Yousafzai admitted to feeling like a burden and struggling with PTSD, depression, and addiction. During a period of vulnerability, he found himself drawn to the 'manosphere,' a network promoting traditional masculinity and self-improvement, which he initially found appealing. However, he eventually recognized the problematic aspects, particularly its shaming tactics and negative views on women, which conflicted with his family's values and his sister's activism. He credits showing himself 'grace' and a strong support system for helping him to heal and withdraw from those influences.