[ad_1]
A 15-year-old scientist and inventor was named Time magazine’s first “child of the year”.
Gitanjali Rao, of Denver, Colorado, invented new technologies in many areas, including a device that can identify lead in drinking water and a Chrome app and extension that uses artificial intelligence to detect cyberbullying.
She said she hoped she could inspire others to come up with ideas for “solving the world’s problems.”
Gitanjali was chosen from a pool of 5,000 US-based nominees, which was narrowed down to five finalists by a committee of young people alongside comedian and TV presenter Trevor Noah.
She and the other four finalists will be honored on a special next Friday.
In an interview with actor and humanitarian Angelina Jolie, Gitanjali said, “I don’t look like your typical scientist. All I see on TV is he’s an older man, usually white, as a scientist.
“My focus has really changed, not only to create my own devices to solve the world’s problems, but also to inspire others to do the same.
“Because, from personal experience, it’s not easy not to see anyone else like you.
“So I really want to get this message across: If I can do it, you can do it, and anyone can do it.
Time started giving out its Man of the Year award in 1927 and then updating it as Person of the Year, but this is the first time it has nominated a Child of the Year. Time, which also produces the kid-friendly Time For Kids, has partnered with children’s television channel Nickelodeon for the new award.
Last year, climate activist Greta Thunberg became the youngest person of the year when she received the honor at 16.
[ad_2]
Source link