We first knew Emma Watson as Hermione in the "Harry Potter" series as an extraordinarily intelligent, strong and independent witch. Over the years and many more roles, Emma has progressed from being a huge positive role model for young girls as an actor to being a role model in women’s empowerment and rights. As she celebrates her 26th birthday, I cannot thank her enough for being such an inspiration to me. Here are 10 reasons why I love Emma Watson

1. Her role as Sam in "The Perks of Being a Wallflower" was impressive, deep and inspiring.

2. Hermione is a strong, independent female character who empowers young girls all over the world.

3. She is a UN Women Goodwill Ambassador and has continued to be an enormous role model in feminism.

4. She taught us how to properly say "Leviosa."

5. Emma’s UN HeForShe campaign has made incredible strides for gender equality for both men and women.

6. Her speech for the HeforShe campaign was absolutely phenomenal and jaw dropping.

7. She always acts and looks on point.

8. Her accent is adorable, and she speaks very eloquently.

9. The dance she did from "Grease" on Jimmy Fallon’s show. Enough said.

10. She has so many amazing quotes to live by.

To name a few....

"I feel like young girls are told they have to be a princess, and be delicate and fragile, and that's bulls**t. I identify much more with the idea of being a warrior, being a fighter. If I was going to be a princess, I'd be a warrior princess, definitely. I think women are scared of feeling powerful and strong and brave sometimes. I think you’ve got to embrace it."

“I don't want other people to decide who I am. I want to decide that for myself.”

"You only learn from experience, so as much as someone can tell you things, you have to go out there and make your own mistakes in order to learn."

"Becoming yourself is really hard and confusing, and it’s a process. I was completely the eager beaver in school, I was the girl in the front of the class who was the first person to put her hand up, and it’s often not cool to be the person that puts themself out there, and I’ve often gotten teased mercilessly, but I found that ultimately if you truly pour your heart into what you believe in — even if it makes you vulnerable — amazing things can and will happen."

Happy birthday to a truly inspiring and strong woman! Thanks for empowering both men and women all over the world!