Describe a person who is a role model for young people

IELTS Speaking Practice icon, Describe a person who is a role model for young people

In this post, we answer a recent IELTS speaking question: Describe a person who is a role model for young people.

IELTS Speaking Practice Part 2 Cue Card

Describe a person who is a role model for young people

You should say:
  • Who this person is
  • How you know about this person
  • What qualities make them a role model
And explain why you think they inspire young people
Remember to speak for 1-2 minutes, and the examiner may ask you one or two follow-up questions.

Sample Answer: Describe a person who is a role model for young people

Right, so, I'd like to talk about Malala Yousafzai, who I genuinely believe is an incredible role model for young people worldwide. I first learned about her remarkable story when I was in secondary school, during a human rights module in our social studies class.

Malala is a Pakistani activist who, despite facing incredibly challenging circumstances, has become a global symbol of courage and educational empowerment. When she was just a teenager, she was shot by extremists for advocating girls' rights to education in her home region of Swat Valley. Instead of being silenced, this horrific experience only amplified her voice on the international stage.

What truly sets her apart is her extraordinary resilience and unwavering commitment to her principles. She didn't just survive a potentially fatal attack; she transformed her personal trauma into a powerful global movement. At an incredibly young age, she became the youngest-ever Nobel Peace Prize laureate, which is absolutely mind-blowing when you think about it. Her qualities are precisely what make her such an inspiring role model. She demonstrates that age is no barrier to creating meaningful change. She's articulate, compassionate, and incredibly brave – showing young people that speaking truth to power isn't just admirable, but essential. Moreover, she's used her platform not to seek personal fame, but to genuinely advocate for educational opportunities for girls in developing countries.

I mean - imagine being targeted for simply wanting to learn and wanting other girls to have that same opportunity. Her story powerfully illustrates how education can be a transformative force for social change. She proves that one passionate individual can make a substantial difference in the world. Today, Malala is a person who is a role model for young people, she represents hope, courage, and the incredible potential of youth to challenge systemic injustices. She's living proof that persistence, education, and moral courage can overcome even the most oppressive circumstances.