The materials from which life is built are typically soft, adaptable and active. In order to study them, we need model materials with similar properties. Based on new insights into a complex material class called elasto-viscoplastics, which includes toothpaste, I propose to develop a new class of active elasto-viscoplastics (A-EVP). These materials could mimic natural life processes like cell migration and embryo development. I will integrate advanced experiments and simulations to develop a mechanical framework, enhancing our understanding of biological mechanics and advancing the creation of innovative, bio-inspired materials like smart 3D-printed and autonomous active matter.