At just 15 years old, Heman Bekele has already made a significant mark in the field of science, particularly in the battle against skin cancer. Recognized by TIME as its "Kid of the Year," Bekele's journey began at the age of 7 when he received a chemistry set for Christmas that included sodium hydroxide. It was then that he started to understand the potential of chemical reactions, almost causing a fire in one of his early experiments.

Growing up in Ethiopia, he observed people laboring under the relentless sun without any protection for their skin. This early exposure to the dangers of the sun inspired a deep interest in skin cancer research, a passion that only grew stronger after his family immigrated to the United States.

Bekele's curiosity and dedication led him to learn about imiquimod, a drug used in the treatment of certain skin cancers. The drug, typically available in cream form, is effective in destroying tumors but comes with a hefty price tag of $40,000. Bekele, however, was driven by the idea of making cancer treatment more accessible, particularly to people of different socio-economic backgrounds. He envisioned a solution that could be as ubiquitous and affordable as soap.

Bekele's innovative approach resulted in the creation of a soap infused with lipid-based nanoparticles loaded with imiquimod. This design ensures that the drug remains on the skin at a molecular level, even after the soap is washed off. His idea quickly garnered attention from experts in the field and the judges of the 2023 Young Scientist Challenge, hosted by 3M Company and Discovery Education. They awarded Bekele first place and a $25,000 prize, recognizing the potential of his creation.

While there is still a long road ahead before the soap can be approved as a cancer treatment, Bekele is far from deterred. He is currently conducting research at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, where molecular biologist and professor Vito Rebecca has offered him the use of his lab. Together, they have begun preliminary tests using mice to further investigate the soap's efficacy. Bekele is balancing this groundbreaking work with his high school studies at Woodson High School in Fairfax County, Virginia, where he also participates in the marching band and enjoys playing chess.

Bekele's soap has the potential to revolutionize skin cancer treatment by making it more affordable and accessible to people around the world. Although it may take a decade or more before the soap is widely available as a treatment, Bekele remains committed to his research and is actively promoting his innovation through presentations.

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