Last Thursday, “Time” magazine and “Time for Kids” announced the Time’s 2024 Kid of the Year as Virginia 15-year-old Heman Bekele for his groundbreaking invention of a soap that promises to revolutionize the treatment of skin cancer. The teen’s innovation is designed to provide an inexpensive and accessible way to deliver medication for treating skin cancers, including melanoma, which affects about one in 38 people globally. Bekele hopes his invention can make a significant impact on people’s lives.
Last year, he was recognized by 3M Corporation and Discovery Education as "America's Top Young Scientist" for his invention, earning the teen a $25-thousand cash prize to continue his research. His cancer-fighting soap, which has a production cost of less than 50-cents, has drawn international attention and has the potential to shape the future of treatment for skin cancer.
In addition to Bekele, “Time” also honored five other young innovators. These honorees include 13-year-old Shanya Gill, who developed a fire prevention device; 12-year-old Madhvi Chittoor, an advocate against harmful chemicals; 15-year-old Jordan Sucato, who protects the pets of unhoused people from extreme heat; 11-year-old Keivonn Woodard, a deaf actor who advocates for authentic representation; and 15-year-old Dom Pecora, an entrepreneur who donates bikes to children in need.
Source: USA TODAYand that is your morning dose of nashville news.