On the late summer's eve of September 16, 1971, a goddess was born. Amy Poehler has graced Hollywood's comedic scene for over 20 years, showing men and women everywhere what it means to be strong female figure in a predominantly male field. Whether you knew her from Saturday Night Live, her early days with the group she created, Upright Citizen's Brigade, the admirable Leslie Knope, or just that girl from that one movie, here's some reasons why Amy Poehler needs to be your favorite human right now.
1. When she’s not producing or starring in a television show, movie, or hosting giant awards with her other half and ultimate BFF Tina Fey, she focuses her energy to empower young women. Smart Girls at the Party is a social media networking site used to share uplifting stories about women who do incredible things for the world in every area, from politics to art and music. Through Facebook, Instagram, Tumblr, and Pinterest, the organization reaches out to girls worldwide with the mission of showing each woman how awesome they can be. However, perhaps the most well-known portion of the movement is her web series called, “Ask Amy” where Amy answers questions from young girls seeking advice. Although there has not been a new video since 2013 (if you are out there, Amy P., I need more videos), the video series is still relatively popular. In these videos, Amy always speaks from the heart, with her vulnerability radiating through as she shares her personal experiences. If you haven't seen these videos yet, go to YouTube and watch them all. Who knew that someone so incredible could end up in the Hollywood industry and not lose their genuineness?
2. As easily as she can talk the talk, she walks the walk. In 2013, Amy went to Haiti with the Worldwide Orphans Foundation (WWO) to care for and play with children who don’t receive much affection. And she went on to give a speech about how many children lack yet deserve love at Variety’s Power of Women Awards saying, “There are so many children in the world who have nothing… who are we to be in this room and living this life without helping them?” Oh, AND Amy and Jon Hamm hosted an Emmy’s “losers' party” that had an admission fee benefitting WWO. She still advocates for care of the world’s orphans, especially in America where there are so many opportunities that others aren’t always afforded.
3. She wrote a freaking book. Not just any book, though, but a book filled with Amy-isms that are wise beyond her years. From talking about her college years at Boston College to the creation of Upright Citizen's Brigade to SNL to now, Yes Please doesn't disappoint readers who read to seek advice and answers. I would tell you all about it, but you're going to have to read that for yourself. Just prepare yourself to read a true masterpiece.
4. She’s a loving mom of two young boys, a friend to many, and just a normal, sane woman. She lives a life many women (including myself) dream of motherhood, happiness, success, and living to serve others. If that doesn't sound like the modern day wonder woman, I don't know what does.
I think that women and girls would find it very hard to find a role model better than Amy Poehler. In a world filled with botox and designer brands, we have the chance to look at the example of a real woman of the real world soaring her way through Hollywood. The selfless, hardworking, and phenomenal Amy Poehler will always be my pick as my favorite person, role model, and dream BFF/adopted family member.
