Why was Malala so taken with the plight of the rubbish children?

The children of the "Rubbish Mountain" were an epiphany. She saw this little girl and immediately went to her father with questions and concerns. It is here that we see the start of Malala's true desire to help others, as well as her depth of character. These children were like her.... but not..... and she recognized these differences, bringing attention to their needs.