A remarkable breakthrough in youth innovation is making national headlines after 14-year-old Heman Bekele was officially named America’s Top Young Scientist for creating a low-cost soap capable of treating skin cancer.
Bekele, a ninth-grade student at W.T. Woodson High School, developed the invention as part of the 3M Young Scientist Challenge, one of the nation’s most prestigious STEM competitions. His project focused on creating an accessible, affordable alternative to traditional cancer treatments, which often carry high costs and limited availability in underserved communities.
The specially formulated soap works by targeting certain cellular mechanisms involved in skin cancer development, offering a potential breakthrough for early-stage, non-invasive care. While still in the research phase, judges praised Heman’s innovation for its scientific potential, practicality, and humanitarian purpose.
“I wanted to make something that could help people who don’t have access to expensive medical treatments,” Heman said after receiving the award. “Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers, and if we can create a low-cost solution, we could help millions of people.”
Bekele hopes to continue refining the soap and eventually launch a nonprofit organization dedicated to distributing it to communities most in need — both in the United States and globally.
For his groundbreaking invention, Heman received a $25,000 cash prize and nationwide recognition. His mentor, Deborah Isabelle, an engineer at 3M’s Automotive Aftermarket Division, was also honored for guiding and supporting his research journey.
The win places Bekele among an elite group of past young scientists whose early innovations have gone on to influence fields such as medicine, environmental science, and engineering.
With big dreams and a mission-driven mindset, Heman Bekele stands as a powerful example of how young thinkers can change the world — one invention at a time.
