Heman Bekele, a 15-year-old Ethiopian American from Virginia, is making waves in the scientific community with his groundbreaking invention a soap infused with cancer-fighting compounds designed to treat and prevent skin cancer. His innovation earned him the title of America’s Top Young Scientist after winning the 3M Young Scientist Challenge in 2023, along with a $25,000 prize.
Born in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Heman moved to the U.S. at the age of four. His inspiration came from observing laborers in Ethiopia working under the harsh sun without protection. Determined to find an affordable solution, he developed a soap that delivers imiquimod a drug used for treating skin cancer through lipid-based nanoparticles. Unlike traditional treatments, which can cost around $40,000, Heman’s soap aims to be a cost-effective alternative, making treatment more accessible to underserved communities accross the globe.
Currently, Heman is working alongside molecular biologist Dr. Vito Rebecca at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health to conduct trials and work toward FDA approval. His efforts and vision earned him the prestigious title of TIME’s 2024 Kid of the Year, cementing his place as a young leader in global health innovation.Heman was recently honored with the Youth Zayed Award for Human Fraternity 2025 in Abu Dhabi, recognizing his innovative contribution in fighting Cancer.
Beyond his scientific achievements, Heman enjoys playing basketball, participating in his high school marching band, and engaging in activities like reading and chess. With the unwavering support of his family and mentors, he continues to push boundaries, proving that age is no barrier to making a significant impact on the world.
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