In the world of science, the image of scientists is often associated with a person who has a lot of experience as a result of their old age, but the truth shows us that innovation has no age limits. In that sense, Heman Bekele, a 14-year-old teenager, was called ‘the best young scientist in the United States’ by invent a soap that heals skin cancer.
This prodigy, a ninth grade student in Annandale, Virginia, won the prestigious ‘3M & Discovery Education’ award, considered one of the most unique science competitions for high school students in the country. His invention not only distinguished him from the other nine finalists, but also earned him the title of ‘America’s best young scientist’.
Heman’s big victory happened at the 3M headquarters in St. Paul, Minnesota, on October 9 and 10, according to a press release. In his remarks during the award presentation, Heman expressed his belief in the positive impact that young minds can have on the world. “I’ve always been interested in biology and technology, and this challenge gave me the perfect platform to showcase my ideas,” he enthusiastically reveals.
The competition, designed for students in fifth through eighth grade, seeks to promote creativity and innovation, encouraging participants to think of ideas that can change the world. Also, in addition to the prestigious title, the winners will receive a cash prize of $25,000, approx. 23,535 euros.
The invention of Heman Bekele
Its revolutionary bar of soap, made from several compounds, offers an affordable treatment solution melanoma with an almost ridiculous cost, approx 0.50 cents per unit.
However, this talented student is not only satisfied with his current recognition, because he intends to perfect his innovation and establish a non-profit organization to distribute his soap in communities that needs in the next five years, as reported by ‘3M & Discovery Education’.
Some winners
In that competition, other talented young people also stood with their inventions. Shripriya Kalbhavia ninth grade student from San Jose, California, took second place for his patch WHAT allows automatic administration of medications without pills or needles. In this regard, Sarah Wanga seventh grade student from Andover, Massachusetts, placed third for inventing a gloves that can detect some epileptic seizures.
