1 minute read
Science in Our Lives
A CHAT WITH TIME’S
FIRST KID OF THE YEAR!
You’ve probably heard of TIME’s Person of the Year, but for the first time ever, a kid was also chosen. Who is TIME’s first Kid of the year? Gitanjali Rao is a 15-year-old Indian American inventor, author, scientist, STEM promoter, and engineer, who was chosen from more than 5,000 nominees.
She is using technology to address some of the world’s messiest problems by inventing solutions - like a device that detects lead in drinking water, an app to help prevent cyberbullying, and more! Orlando Science Center got the chance to chat with Gitanjali about her work as an inventor, an innovator, a STEM advocate and TIME’s first Kid of the Year.
“My inventions are helping to shape and save the world,” she said. “And no matter how old you are or where you live, you can do it, too!” Gitanjali recently wrote a book, A Young Innovator’s Guide to STEM, to encourage other young people to follow their dreams. The book shares a roadmap to innovation with a practical process for getting started and foolproof tips to compete in STEM competitions and other contests. It contains real-world advice to jump start your creativity.
“Observe, brainstorm, research, build and communicate.” That is what this brilliant young scientist from Denver told actor and activist Angelina Jolie about her process during an interview for TIME Magazine. It certainly sounds like a winning formula for tackling some of our world’s biggest issues. Gitanjali encourages everyone to be part of an innovation movement as we face today’s unique and complex challenges. The world needs more problem solvers.
And we need more young people like Gitanjali Rao! Please visit our website for a special message from TIME’s first Kid of the Year. Who is TIME’s First Kid of the Year? Get to Know Gitanjali Rao and learn more about Gitanjali on her website:
