Heman Bekele, now a 15-year-old high school student in Fairfax County, Virginia, has had a keen interest in chemistry since childhood. His fascination began at the age of seven when he received a chemistry set for Christmas, which included sodium hydroxide among its components. This seemingly innocent hobby sparked what would become his future scientific career.

Originally from Ethiopia, Bekele grew up observing the effects of the sun on the skin of those who worked outdoors without protection. After moving to the United States, he became increasingly aware of the harmful effects of UV radiation and the risks associated with prolonged sun exposure.

Over time, Bekele developed a keen interest in skin cancer research and treatment options. His curiosity evolved into a true passion when he learned about imiquimod, a drug used to treat certain forms of skin cancer that has shown the ability to destroy tumours. Available as a cream, this medication piqued Bekele's interest as he considered its potential.

Reflecting on the people he had seen in Ethiopia, Bekele began to wonder if imiquimod could be used at earlier stages of skin cancer and made more accessible to people of varying economic backgrounds. "Almost everyone uses soap and water for cleaning, so soap would probably be the best option," he explained when describing his idea to create a soap enriched with the drug.

Heman Bekele's soap is far from an ordinary hygiene product. It is infused with nanoparticles ‘loaded’ with imiquimod, designed to keep the drug on the skin even after the soap is rinsed off. This allows the active ingredient to work at the molecular level, potentially enhancing the effectiveness of the treatment.

Bekele's innovative project has garnered significant recognition within the scientific community. He won the 3M Young Scientist Challenge, organised by 3M and Discovery Education, earning a $25,000 prize. The scientists who assessed his work see considerable potential in his idea. Additionally, TIME magazine has honoured Bekele with this year's ‘Kid of the Year’ title.

While numerous research stages are yet to be completed before Heman’s soap can be approved as an official treatment, the young scientist is already conducting advanced studies at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health in Baltimore. Bekele has enlisted the help of Professor Vito Rebecca, granting him access to a professional laboratory where they are collaboratively testing the soap on mice.

Though the approval process for the soap as a treatment could take another decade, Heman Bekele remains committed to his research. Despite his scientific pursuits, he still finds time to play chess and perform in the school orchestra. His determination and passion for science suggest that he may one day become a pivotal figure in the fight against skin cancer.

At just 15 years old, Bekele has proven that age is no barrier to achieving great things. His soap could represent a breakthrough that may ultimately save countless lives worldwide.