Heman Bekele, a 14-year-old ninth grader from Annandale, Virginia, has been honored as “America’s Top Young Scientist” for his groundbreaking invention—a bar of soap that treats skin cancer. His innovation earned him this prestigious title at the annual 3M Young Scientist Challenge, a top science and engineering competition for middle school students.
A Passionate Young Innovator
Bekele’s journey to this remarkable achievement began with a passion for medicine, programming, and making a positive impact on the world. He spent the past year developing his Skin Cancer Treating Soap (SCTS), a product designed to make skin cancer treatment more accessible and affordable.
The Winning Innovation: Skin Cancer Treating Soap
The SCTS is a compound-based bar of soap infused with cancer-fighting chemicals. Bekele explains that it utilizes a drug called imidazoquinolines, which is wrapped in a lipid-based nanoparticle. This innovative approach ensures that the medicinal components remain on the skin even after the soap is washed away, providing an effective and convenient treatment for various forms of skin cancer.
“I wanted to find a more affordable and accessible approach to treating skin cancer,” Bekele stated. “Traditional treatments like surgery or radiation therapy are often costly and not easily accessible to everyone. That’s why I focused on creating a topical application like a cream or bar of soap.”
Inspiring the Next Generation
Bekele’s achievement is not just about his scientific prowess but also his desire to inspire others. He believes in the potential of young minds to make significant contributions to the world. “I believe that young minds can make a positive impact on the world,” he said after winning the award.
Looking Ahead
Bekele’s aspirations extend beyond his current achievement. He is eager to pursue further opportunities in research and internships in STEM and computer science. His ultimate goal is to refine his innovation and establish a non-profit organization to distribute the soap to communities in need over the next five years.
Early Beginnings in Science
Bekele’s passion for science began at a very young age. His curiosity and love for understanding the world around him fueled his interest in creating new things and conducting experiments. “Since before I can remember, I’ve had a huge love for just knowing things about this world and being curious,” he shared. “That initial curiosity grew into my love and passion for science and creating new things.”
Conclusion
Heman Bekele’s recognition as “America’s Top Young Scientist” highlights the potential of young innovators to tackle complex problems with creative solutions. His Skin Cancer Treating Soap is a testament to his ingenuity and determination to make a meaningful impact on healthcare accessibility. As Bekele continues his journey, he sets a powerful example for aspiring young scientists everywhere.