Gitanjali Rao: Inspiring Innovation and Social Impact as Global Kid of the Year 2020

Gitanjali Rao is a 17-year-old American inventor, author, scientist, engineer, and a science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) promoter and social activist. She has won several awards and recognitions for her innovations and outreach efforts, including being named Time's top young innovator of 2020 and their first "Kid of the Year".

Gitanjali Rao, a young and innovative Indian scientist, captured the world's attention and earned the prestigious title of Global Kid of the Year in 2020. With her groundbreaking ideas and unwavering passion for making a difference, Gitanjali has emerged as a beacon of inspiration for young minds worldwide. Let's delve into her remarkable journey and the innovative ideas that propelled her to global recognition.

A Trailblazing Innovator from a Young Age

From a young age, Gitanjali Rao displayed a remarkable curiosity and passion for science and innovation. Her natural inclination towards problem-solving and her ability to think beyond boundaries set her on a path of discovery and invention.

Tackling Global Challenges with Innovation

Gitanjali's innovative ideas have centered around addressing some of the world's most pressing challenges. From developing a device to detect lead in water to creating an app that combats cyberbullying, she has shown an incredible ability to identify real-world problems and come up with creative solutions.

Empowering Youth through STEAM

One of Gitanjali's core missions is to empower young minds and inspire them to pursue their passion for science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM). Through her workshops, talks, and mentorship, she encourages fellow youngsters to embrace their creativity and use it as a force for positive change.

Recognition and Global Impact

Gitanjali's exceptional achievements have garnered widespread recognition and admiration. Her title as the Global Kid of the Year 2020, awarded by TIME magazine, has further amplified her voice and influence on a global scale. Gitanjali's work has inspired countless individuals and organizations to prioritize innovation, collaboration, and empathy in addressing the world's challenges.

Inspiring a Generation of Changemakers

Gitanjali Rao's journey serves as an inspiration to young innovators and changemakers worldwide. Her ability to tackle complex problems with simplicity and her determination to create a better future exemplify the potential of youth in shaping a brighter world. Gitanjali's impact extends far beyond her individual achievements, as she ignites a spark in others to dream big and make a positive impact in their communities.

Her Innovative Ideas

Rao's passion for science and innovation was sparked by a science kit her uncle gave her when she was four years old. Since then, she has been creating solutions for various global problems using technology.


One of her most notable inventions is Tethys, a device that can measure the lead content in water using carbon nanotubes and Bluetooth.  She came up with this idea after hearing about the Flint water crisis and wanted to help people access clean water.  She won the Discovery Education 3M Young Scientist Challenge in 2017 and received $25,000 for her invention.  She is currently working with the Denver water facility to develop a prototype of Tethys. 

Another one of her inventions is Epione, a diagnostic tool that uses genetic engineering to detect early signs of prescription opioid addiction.  She developed this idea after learning about the opioid epidemic and its impact on people's health and well-being.  She received the Top "Health" Pillar Prize for the TCS Ignite Innovation Student Challenge in May 2019 for her invention. 

She has also invented Kindly, an app that uses artificial intelligence to detect and prevent cyberbullying.  She created this app after witnessing some of her friends being bullied online and wanted to empower people to be kinder to each other.  She partnered with UNICEF to launch Kindly as a service and became a UNICEF Youth Advocate. 

Her Global Impact

Rao is not only an innovator but also an educator and a leader. She conducts workshops and webinars across the globe to inspire and mentor other young students who are interested in STEM and innovation.  She has also written a book called A Young Innovator's Guide to STEM, which provides tips and resources for aspiring inventors. 

She is also a social activist who uses her voice and platform to raise awareness and funds for various causes. She has been involved in community service projects such as building a makerspace for refugee camps, supporting girls' education in India, and promoting environmental sustainability.  She has received the Muhammed Ali Humanitarian Award for her humanitarian efforts. 

Rao's vision is to create a global movement of teens who are passionate about solving problems and making a difference in the world. She believes that anyone can be an innovator if they follow her motto: "Observe, brainstorm, research, build and communicate." 

She is an example of how young people can use their creativity, curiosity, and compassion to change the world for the better. Gitanjali Rao's remarkable journey from a young Indian scientist to being recognized as the Global Kid of the Year 2020 is a testament to her innovation, passion, and commitment to making a difference. Through her groundbreaking ideas and dedication to empowering youth, Gitanjali has inspired a generation of changemakers to think beyond limits and use their talents to shape a better world. Her impact on the global stage has solidified her position as a role model, encouraging others to embrace their creativity, address challenges, and leave a lasting positive impact on society.

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