Amanda Gorman, a name synonymous with powerful poetry, activism, and social change, is a figure who has captured the hearts of millions around the world. Born on March 7, 1998, in Los Angeles, California, Amanda S. C. Gorman is currently 26 years old. Her age, however, belies the depth of her accomplishments and the profound impact she has made on society. In this article, we delve into the life of Amanda Gorman, exploring her early years, her rise to prominence, and the influence she continues to wield.

Early Life and Education: The Making of a Poet

Amanda Gorman was born into a world of challenges and opportunities. Raised by her single mother, Joan Wicks, a 6th-grade English teacher in Watts, Los Angeles, Gorman grew up in an environment that nurtured her love for reading and writing. Her mother, a strong influence in her life, ensured that Amanda and her two siblings were exposed to the power of words and the importance of education.

Gorman’s twin sister, Gabrielle, shares her passion for activism and is a filmmaker, highlighting the creative spirit that runs in the family. Despite growing up with limited access to television, Gorman immersed herself in books, which fueled her imagination and sharpened her writing skills. She has often described her younger self as a “weird child” who found solace and strength in the written word.

Amanda’s early life was not without its challenges. She was diagnosed with an auditory processing disorder and was hypersensitive to sound. Additionally, she had a speech impediment, which made it difficult for her to articulate certain words. However, rather than viewing these challenges as obstacles, Gorman saw them as opportunities to hone her other abilities. She became exceptionally skilled at reading and writing, which would later become the foundation of her career as a poet.

Overcoming Adversity: The Path to Harvard

Amanda Gorman’s journey to success was marked by determination and resilience. She attended New Roads, a private school in Santa Monica, where her talents were recognized and nurtured. As a senior, she was awarded the prestigious Milken Family Foundation college scholarship, which paved the way for her to attend Harvard College.

At Harvard, Gorman studied sociology, graduating cum laude in 2020 as a member of the esteemed Phi Beta Kappa society. During her time at Harvard, she also spent a semester studying in Madrid, Spain, further broadening her horizons and deepening her understanding of global issues.

The Rise of a Young Poet: From Local Laureate to National Icon

Amanda Gorman’s ascent in the world of poetry began in 2014 when she was named the first Youth Poet Laureate of Los Angeles at just 16 years old. This recognition was a testament to her exceptional talent and the powerful messages embedded in her work. Her poetry, which often explores themes of oppression, feminism, race, and marginalization, resonated with a broad audience, setting the stage for her future success.

In 2015, Gorman published her first poetry book, The One for Whom Food Is Not Enough, which showcased her ability to address complex social issues through eloquent and evocative language. The following year, she founded the nonprofit organization One Pen One Page, which aimed to empower young people through writing and leadership programs.

A Historic Moment: The Inauguration Poem That Captured the World

Amanda Gorman’s career reached a new pinnacle on January 20, 2021, when she delivered her poem “The Hill We Climb” at the inauguration of President Joe Biden. At just 22 years old, Gorman became the youngest poet to ever perform at a U.S. presidential inauguration. Her powerful words, delivered with grace and confidence, resonated across the globe and earned her international acclaim.

Gorman’s poem, which she amended following the January 6th attack on the U.S. Capitol, spoke to the resilience and unity of the American people. It was a call to action, a reminder of the challenges ahead, and a beacon of hope for the future. The poem’s impact was immediate, catapulting Gorman into the global spotlight and solidifying her status as a leading voice of her generation.

Beyond the Inauguration: Continued Success and Influence

The success of “The Hill We Climb” opened many doors for Amanda Gorman. Shortly after the inauguration, her upcoming books, including a poetry collection and a children’s book, soared to the top of bestseller lists. Gorman’s influence extended beyond the literary world, as she was signed by IMG Models and represented by Writers House in the publishing industry.

In February 2021, Gorman made history once again by becoming the first poet to perform at the Super Bowl. Her poem, “Chorus of the Captains,” honored the essential workers who had been at the forefront of the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. This performance further cemented Gorman’s reputation as a poet who could capture the spirit of the moment and inspire a nation.

Conclusion: Amanda Gorman’s Enduring Legacy

Amanda Gorman’s age may be just 26, but her influence and accomplishments far exceed her years. From her early days as a young poet in Los Angeles to her historic performance at the U.S. presidential inauguration, Gorman has consistently used her voice to advocate for social change and inspire others. As she continues to write, speak, and lead, Amanda Gorman’s legacy as a powerful poet and activist will undoubtedly continue to grow, leaving an indelible mark on the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How old is Amanda Gorman?

Amanda Gorman was born on March 7, 1998, making her 26 years old as of 2024.

2. What is Amanda Gorman known for?

Amanda Gorman is known for her powerful poetry that addresses issues such as oppression, feminism, race, and marginalization. She gained international fame for her poem “The Hill We Climb,” which she delivered at President Joe Biden’s inauguration in 2021.

3. What challenges did Amanda Gorman face growing up?

Amanda Gorman was diagnosed with an auditory processing disorder and had a speech impediment as a child. She viewed these challenges as opportunities to develop her reading and writing skills, which became the foundation of her career as a poet.

4. What are some of Amanda Gorman’s major accomplishments?

Some of Amanda Gorman’s major accomplishments include becoming the first Youth Poet Laureate of Los Angeles, delivering the inauguration poem for President Joe Biden, and being the first poet to perform at the Super Bowl. She has also published several bestselling books.

5. What is Amanda Gorman’s educational background?

Amanda Gorman attended New Roads School in Santa Monica and later studied sociology at Harvard College, where she graduated cum laude in 2020.