Indian-American Gitanjali Rao was selected from among 5000 nominees as TIME magazine’s first-ever ‘Kid of the Year’.
A “brilliant” young scientist and inventor, Gitanjali, 15, was chosen for her “astonishing work” using technology to tackle issues ranging from contaminated drinking water to opioid addiction and cyberbullying.
“The world belongs to those who shape it. And however uncertain that world may feel at a given moment, the reassuring reality seems to be that each new generation produces more of what these kids have already achieved: positive impact, in all sizes,” Time said.
She was interviewed by actor and activist Angelina Jolie for the TIME special.
“Observe, brainstorm, research, build and communicate,” Rao told about her process during a virtual talk with Jolie from her home in Colorado.
“Even over video chat, her brilliant mind and generous spirit shone through, along with her inspiring message to other young people: don’t try to fix every problem, just focus on one that excites you,” Time said.
“If I can do it,” she said in the interview, “anybody can do it.”
