Children’s Spotlight of the Week: Heman Bekele – The 15-Year-Old Innovator Revolutionizing Skin Cancer Treatment
At just 15 years old, Heman Bekele from Annandale, Virginia, has already made a remarkable impact on the world. Named Time Magazine’s 2024 Kid of the Year, Heman is being recognized for his groundbreaking work in developing a soap that could revolutionize skin cancer treatment. His innovative approach offers hope for a more accessible and affordable method of delivering medication for skin cancers, including melanoma.
Heman’s journey into science and innovation began at an early age. Born in Ethiopia, he moved to the United States with his family, bringing with him a natural curiosity and a passion for experimentation. At just over seven years old, Heman began mixing various household chemicals, such as dish soap and laundry detergent, to create what he called his “potions.”
He would hide these concoctions under his bed, observing them overnight to see what changes might occur. Although these early experiments were simple, they laid the foundation for the extraordinary work he would later pursue.
Fast forward to 2023, when Heman, at the age of 14, was named America’s Top Young Scientist by 3M and Discovery Education. Competing against nine other finalists, he won the prestigious title and a $25,000 cash prize for his innovative soap, which has the potential to change the way skin cancer is treated.
Heman’s 3M mentor, Deborah Isabelle, describes him as “kind, intelligent, focused, inspiring, and energetic,” qualities that have clearly driven his success. Isabelle, who is also the chairwoman of 3M’s science training encouragement program, believes Heman’s work will continue to inspire other young people to see the potential of science to make a positive difference.
Heman’s soap is still in the testing phase and is not yet commercially available. According to reports, it could take up to a decade for the soap to receive certification from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Despite this, the teen innovator remains optimistic and driven by the possibility of making a real impact on people’s lives. “It’s absolutely incredible to think that one day my bar of soap will be able to make a direct impact on somebody else’s life,” Heman told Time Magazine. “That’s the reason I started this all in the first place.”
The Kid of the Year award, which was established in 2020, honors young individuals in the United States who are making significant contributions to society. Heman’s achievements at such a young age not only demonstrate his brilliance but also his commitment to using science to create solutions that can improve the lives of others.
Heman Bekele’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact that young minds can have on the world. His passion for innovation and his dedication to making a difference are truly inspiring, and his work in skin cancer treatment could pave the way for more accessible healthcare solutions in the future. As Heman continues his journey, there’s no doubt that he will inspire countless other young people to pursue their own passions and make a positive impact on the world.
