This Post Is Recently Updated on Oct 27, 2023 @ 7:34 am by TBB Desk
Excerpt
– 14-year-old Heman Bekele invents a skin cancer-fighting soap, priced under $10.
– Earned title of America’s Top Young Scientist in 2023 3M Young Scientists Challenge.
– Soap’s formula rejuvenates skin-protecting cells to combat cancer cells.
– Idea inspired by sun-exposed workers in Ethiopia.
– Bekele aims for the soap to represent hope and accessibility in skin cancer treatment.
Details
Heman Bekele, a 14-year-old American student from Frost Middle School in Fairfax County, has crafted a unique soap with the potential to aid in the battle against skin cancer. His innovation earned him the title of America’s Top Young Scientist in the 2023 3M Young Scientists Challenge, outshining nine other contenders and securing the grand prize of $25,000, as reported by the Washington Post.
Bekele’s invention, priced under $10, is believed to carry compounds capable of reigniting the activity of skin-protecting cells, empowering them to counter cancer cells. Reflecting on his victory, Heman shared with the media that it was an overwhelming realization to see his diligent efforts come to fruition.
The inception of this idea traced back to his days in Ethiopia, witnessing locals constantly under the sun’s exposure. Though initially overlooked, as the competition approached, memories of his time there steered him towards addressing skin cancer. Heman expressed a desire for his concept to transcend scientific excellence by embodying accessibility and impacting a broader populace. He envisioned his soap becoming a reliable and commonplace commodity in individuals’ daily routines, resonating with his ambition for a “constant” presence.
Upon earning a spot among the top 10 finalists, Heman was mentored by Deborah Isabelle, a 3M product engineering specialist. She commended his dedication to enriching lives beyond his immediate circles, a virtue apparent from their initial interaction.
The journey to a functional prototype demanded several months of meticulous experimentation. Utilizing computer modeling, Heman devised the soap’s formula, culminating in a product named the Skin Cancer Treating Soap. Its mechanism leverages a specific compound to rejuvenate dendritic cells, often targeted by cancer cells. Once revitalized, these cells resume their defensive role against cancerous entities. This process, as explained by Isabelle, reignites the body’s innate healing prowess, reacquainting it with its self-defense capabilities.
In a marketplace dominated by creams, Bekele’s soap introduces a novel approach to cancer treatment. During his presentation, he articulated his aspiration for the soap to symbolize hope, accessibility, and a reality where skin cancer treatment is attainable for all.
