15-Year-Old Scientist Heman Bekele Named TIME's 2024 Kid of the Year for Groundbreaking Skin Cancer-Treating Soap

Heman Bekele's Revolutionary Skin Cancer Soap

Heman Bekele, a 15-year-old scientist from Virginia, has been making headlines for his remarkable invention: a soap designed to treat and potentially prevent skin cancer. Named TIME's 2024 Kid of the Year, Bekele's innovation has captured the attention of the scientific community and the public alike.

Bekele's journey began with a deep-rooted curiosity and a desire to make a difference. Growing up in Ethiopia, he witnessed the harsh effects of the sun on the skin of people working long hours outdoors. This experience inspired him to develop a soap that delivers cancer-fighting drugs through lipid nanoparticles, which activate the body's immune cells to combat skin cancer.

This innovation has not only earned him the prestigious TIME award but also the grand prize at the 3M Young Scientist Challenge, where he was recognized for his potential to change lives with accessible and affordable treatment options. Despite his young age, Bekele is already conducting research at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, working tirelessly to bring his vision to fruition.

Bekele's achievement highlights the power of youthful innovation and the impact that science can have on global health challenges. As he continues to balance high school with groundbreaking research, the world watches with anticipation to see how his invention will evolve and potentially transform skin cancer treatment.

Bekele’s story is a testament to the impact of early scientific education and the importance of supporting young innovators. His soap is still in the research phase, but its potential has already brought hope to many and inspired others to pursue science with the goal of making a positive difference in the world​