Teen Inventor Creates Skin Cancer Treatment Soap

14-year-old Heman Bekele from Virginia has been crowned “America’s Top Young Scientist” for his groundbreaking invention of a soap that can treat skin cancer. This prestigious award, presented by 3M and Discovery Education, recognizes Heman’s remarkable achievement in the field of science.

A Young Visionary at the Helm of America’s Top Young Scientist Title

Heman, a ninth grader from Annandale, Virginia, expressed his belief in the power of young minds to make a positive impact on the world. With a passion for biology and technology, he saw the competition as the perfect platform to showcase his innovative ideas.

Over the course of four months, Heman competed against nine other finalists to claim the title of “America’s Top Young Scientist.” This competition, designed for students in grades five to eight, aims to encourage young minds to develop innovative ideas that can bring about positive change.

$25,000 Prize as America’s Top Young Scientist

Aside from the honor of being named the top young scientist in America, Heman also received a cash prize of $25,000. The award ceremony took place at 3M’s headquarters in St. Paul, Minnesota, on October 9th and 10th.

Shripriya Kalbhavi, a ninth grader from San Jose, California, secured second place for her development of a cost-effective patch that allows for self-automated medication delivery without the need for pills or needles. Sarah Wang, a seventh grader from Andover, Massachusetts, came in third place with her invention of a glove that can detect certain epileptic seizures through common hand movements.

Heman’s Award-Winning Innovation: Affordable Soap for Melanoma Treatment

Heman’s winning invention is a compound-based bar of soap specifically designed to treat melanoma, a form of skin cancer. What makes this innovation even more remarkable is its affordability, as each bar of soap costs only around $0.50 to produce.

Heman’s vision for the future includes refining his invention and establishing a non-profit organization to distribute the soap to communities in need within the next five years.

In Its 16th Year

The “America’s Top Young Scientist” competition not only celebrates the achievements of these young innovators but also provides them with invaluable mentorship from 3M scientists. This mentorship allows the finalists to bring their ideas from concept to prototype, further enhancing their understanding of STEM principles and their ability to inspire others.

This year marked the 16th edition of the competition, which has seen previous winners accomplish incredible feats such as giving TED Talks, filing patents and founding non-profit organizations.

Inspiring Young Scientists Nationwide

Heman’s soap invention has the potential to revolutionize the treatment of skin cancer, offering an affordable and accessible solution for those in need. His remarkable achievement serves as an inspiration to young scientists around the country, proving that age is no barrier to making a significant impact on the world.

As Heman continues to refine his invention and work towards his goals, the future looks bright for this young scientist. With his determination, passion, and innovative thinking, there is no doubt that he will continue to make waves in the scientific community and beyond.