Fairfax Teen Named Time Magazine Kid of the Year, Aims to Cure Skin Cancer
W.T. Woodson High School sophomore Heman Bekele has been named the 2024 Kid of the Year by Time Magazine for his groundbreaking work in creating a cancer-treating soap. The soap, which Bekele describes as both cheap and effective, is designed to provide a more affordable alternative for those who cannot afford traditional skin cancer treatments. His inspiration for fighting skin cancer stems from his early years in Ethiopia, where he witnessed the impact of the disease on individuals working long hours under the hot sun.
In October 2023, Bekele was recognized as “America’s Top Young Scientist” and won 3M’s Young Scientist Challenge for his innovative soap creation. This summer, he worked at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, collaborating with the Rebecca Lab to test the soap on mice. Bekele’s ultimate goal is to obtain FDA certification for the soap and make a positive impact on those affected by skin cancer.
The young innovator’s dedication to finding a solution for skin cancer has garnered national attention, with Time Magazine honoring him as Kid of the Year. In a recent interview with CNN, Bekele shared his passion for making a difference in the lives of those affected by the disease.
Entrepreneurship 101 Workshop
For individuals interested in starting a business, the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority (FCEDA) is hosting an Entrepreneurship 101 (E-101) workshop on September 4 in Tysons. This free workshop will cover essential topics such as registering your business, permitting requirements, business feasibility, business plan basics, business certifications, financing options, and government resources. Attendees will have the opportunity to network with experts in the field and FCEDA staff.
The E-101 workshops, presented in partnership with the Virginia Department of Small Business and Supplier Diversity, the Community Business Partnership, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and the Fairfax County Department of Economic Initiatives, aim to provide aspiring entrepreneurs with the knowledge and resources needed to launch successful businesses.
Innovation in Fairfax County
Construction is nearing completion on the first building at the Virginia Tech Innovation Campus in Alexandria. Academic Building One, a striking 11-story structure, is expected to open to students in January 2025. The campus, located in the Potomac Yard neighborhood, will feature three buildings on a 3.5-acre site, with a focus on fostering collaboration and innovation among students and researchers.
Accreditation and Funding Success
Tysons-based Somatus, a provider of value-based kidney care, recently received the National Committee for Quality Assurance’s Health Equity Accreditation, making it the first value-based kidney care provider to achieve this distinction. The company’s commitment to improving equity, access, and outcomes for patients has been recognized through this accreditation.
Meanwhile, DEFCON AI, a Tysons-based company specializing in military technology, raised $44 million in seed funding to further develop its next-generation modeling, simulation, and analysis toolset. The company’s innovative solutions aim to reshape response planning in contested environments and enhance coordination in military operations.
Expansion and Collaboration in the Tech Sector
Herndon-based HawkEye 360 has expanded its satellite constellation with the launch of three radio frequency-sensing satellites into orbit. This development will enhance the company’s global radio frequency monitoring capabilities and provide valuable insights for strategic decision-making.
Scout Space, a startup in Reston specializing in space domain awareness, has partnered with Dawn Aerospace to demonstrate a unique surveillance capability for observing objects in very low Earth orbit from an aircraft operating in suborbital space. This collaboration represents a significant advancement in space domain awareness technology.
Acquisitions and New Ventures
Chantilly-based Parsons Corporation completed its acquisition of BlackSignal Technologies, a company specializing in cyber and electronic warfare capabilities, for $200 million. This strategic move strengthens Parsons’ position in the defense and intelligence sectors and expands its offerings in critical areas such as counterspace radio frequency domain.
Herndon’s ePlus Technology acquired IT services company Bailiwick Services, enhancing its business services offerings and supporting its growth strategy. The acquisition will further strengthen ePlus’ position in the IT services market and provide additional value to its clients.
Exciting Developments in Fairfax County
A new commuter garage in Springfield is set to open in September, providing nearly 1,100 free parking spaces for commuters. The transit center will also feature bus bays and carpooling areas, offering a convenient and accessible transportation option for residents in the area.
Luxury retailer Chloé has announced plans to open its first store in the D.C. metro area at Tysons Galleria, adding to its exclusive portfolio of U.S. locations. The new store will offer a unique shopping experience for fashion enthusiasts in the region.
The Pickleball Club of Tysons has opened a new indoor facility to meet the growing demand for pickleball enthusiasts. The recreational facility features six dedicated courts and provides a year-round playing opportunity for players of all skill levels.
In conclusion, Fairfax County continues to be a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship, with individuals and companies making significant strides in various industries. From groundbreaking medical research to cutting-edge technology developments, the county remains at the forefront of progress and growth. The diverse range of initiatives and collaborations showcased in this article highlights the vibrant and dynamic business landscape in Fairfax County.
