This Young Scientist Just Became TIME’s Kid Of The Year—Here’s Why

Heman Bekele, a 15-year-old high school student from Virginia, has been named TIME’s Kid of the Year 2024 for inventing a soap that could one day treat and prevent multiple forms of skin cancer.

While the product may take years to reach the market, Bekele is already working in a lab at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health in Baltimore, dedicated to making his vision a reality.

A Young Scientist’s Vision

Bekele’s journey into science began at a young age. He experimented with household chemicals and later received a chemistry set that sparked his interest in chemical reactions.

Born in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and immigrating to the US at the age of four, Bekele was inspired by memories of laborers working under the scorching sun, often witout protection for their skin.

This early exposure led him to focus on skin cancer research, particularly on creating an affordable and accessible treatment.

“What is one thing that is an internationally impactful idea, something that everyone can use, [regardless of] socioeconomic class?” Bekele pondered, according to TIME.

Bekele’s solution was simple but innovative: a bar of soap.

Fighting Cancer, One Bar at a Time

Bekele explains that his soap utilizes a compound revives dendritic cells—key components of the immune system cancer cells often destroy. By reactivating these cells, the soap helps the body combat skin cancer.

Eager to bring his idea to life, Bekele applied to the 3M Young Scientist Challenge. With guidance from his 3M mentor, Deborah Isabelle, he spent months working on a prototype.

He also used computer modelling to develop a formula that could effectively deliver the compound through soap.

In October 2023, Bekele’s hard work paid off. He won the competition, earning a $25,000 prize.

A major catalyst to his research came when Bekele met Dr. Vito Rebecca, a molecular biologist at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, at a networking event.

Rebecca agreed to sponsor Bekele, offering him lab space in Baltimore, where they are currently the soap on mice.

Despite the challenges ahead, including securing patents and FDA approval, Bekele is unwavering in his mission to bring this innovative product to market.

A Promising Future In Science

Bekele’s invention has garnered him national recognition. In addition to his lab work, he has shared his story at prominent events, including a presentation at the National Academy of Future Physicians and Medical Scientists.

Though his achievements are impressive, Bekele remains humble. “Anybody could do what I did,” he insists. “I just came up with an idea. I worked towards that idea, and I was able to bring it to life.”

Bekele credits his family, particularly his parents, for laying the groundwork for his success. His mother, Muluemebet, is a teacher, and his father, Wondwossen, is a human-resources specialist for the US Agency for International Development.

As Bekele continues his research, the world watches with anticipation, hopeful that his soap will one day play a crucial role in saving lives.

Image credit: Fairfax County Public Schools