Breaking Barriers: The Inspiring Journeys of Heman Bekele and Meti Abebe
In an era where the contributions of immigrants are increasingly recognized, two Ethiopian Americans are making their mark in the United States—one in the world of science, the other in the judiciary. Their stories are not just about individual achievements but about the profound impact they aim to have on society, reflecting a deep-rooted commitment to their communities and to the betterment of others.
A Young Scientist’s Dream: Heman Bekele’s Fight Against Skin Cancer
Heman Bekele, a 15-year-old student at Woodson High School in Fairfax County, Virginia, has already accomplished what many can only dream of. Named TIME’s 2024 Kid of the Year, Heman’s journey from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to the forefront of scientific innovation is nothing short of remarkable.
Born in Ethiopia, Heman emigrated to the U.S. with his family at the age of 4. His earliest memories include witnessing laborers in his homeland working under the blistering sun without any protection, a sight that left a lasting impression on him. His parents instilled in him and his sisters the importance of covering up and the dangers of excessive sun exposure—a lesson that sparked his interest in skin cancer prevention.
Driven by a desire to make a difference, Heman began researching imiquimod, a drug approved to treat certain forms of skin cancer. Typically, imiquimod is used in cream form as part of a broader cancer treatment plan, costing up to $40,000—a prohibitive expense for many. Heman’s innovative mind saw a different possibility: what if this lifesaving drug could be made available in a more accessible and affordable form, such as a bar of soap?
His groundbreaking idea—a soap infused with imiquimod—won him the 3M Young Scientist Challenge in October 2023, along with a $25,000 prize. The simplicity and potential impact of his invention have captured the attention of the scientific community. Currently, Heman spends his summer days working in a lab at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health in Baltimore, where he continues to develop his invention. His ambition and selflessness are what earned him the title of TIME’s Kid of the Year, a recognition that underscores his potential to revolutionize skin cancer treatment.
Heman’s journey is far from over. As he balances his high school studies with lab work, he remains focused on his ultimate goal: to bring his soap to market and make it a tool that can save lives. “It’s absolutely incredible to think that one day my bar of soap will be able to make a direct impact on somebody else’s life,” Heman says. “That’s the reason I started this all in the first place.”
Breaking the Glass Ceiling: Meti Abebe’s Historic Appointment
While Heman is making strides in science, another Ethiopian American, Meti Abebe, is breaking new ground in the legal field. Abebe recently made history as the first Ethiopian American magistrate judge on the Superior Court, a role that she approaches with a deep sense of responsibility and compassion.
Born in Ethiopia, Abebe’s journey to the bench was shaped by her experiences as an immigrant and her dedication to serving vulnerable communities. For 16 years, she managed her own law firm, The Law Office of Meti Abebe, LLC, focusing on immigration law and child abuse and neglect cases. Her work brought her face-to-face with individuals and families navigating crises, and she became known for her ability to listen and provide empathetic legal support.
When Abebe was appointed as a magistrate judge in the Family Court, she became a trailblazer in her community. Reflecting on her historic appointment, Abebe expressed both pride and a recognition of the importance of representation. “I’m very honored and privileged to be the first,” she said. “Over the years of just coming to the courts, I’ve noticed that there is a huge community of Ethiopian Americans who live in the area and utilize this court. So, in some regards, I thought [becoming a judge] might be important because it makes a difference for people to see people who might understand where they come from.”
In her new role, Abebe remains committed to listening to all who enter her courtroom, regardless of their background or circumstances. She understands the weight of her position and the impact her decisions can have on families and individuals. “I’ve dealt with different people who have been through so many kinds of crises,” she shared. “I just want people to know that I’ll be there to listen and make sure that I’ll do the right thing.”
Abebe’s story is not just about breaking a proverbial glass ceiling; it’s about the power of empathy and the importance of having leaders who reflect the communities they serve. Her appointment is a milestone for Ethiopian Americans and a beacon of hope for those who seek justice in a system that often feels distant and unapproachable.
A Shared Commitment to Change
Heman Bekele and Meti Abebe, though on different paths, share a common commitment to improving the lives of others. Heman’s innovation in skin cancer treatment and Abebe’s compassionate approach to justice exemplify the contributions that Ethiopian Americans are making in the United States. Their stories serve as a reminder that no matter where one starts, with ambition, empathy, and dedication, it’s possible to make a lasting impact on the world.
These two trailblazers are not just achieving personal success; they are paving the way for others and inspiring future generations to reach higher and dream bigger. Their journeys reflect the strength and resilience of the Ethiopian American community, and their work continues to resonate far beyond the borders of the fields they serve.
