WASHINGTON: Gitanjali Rao, a teen, and 14 other young women leaders were recognised by US First Lady Jill Biden for instigating change and paving the way for a better future in their local communities around the country.
Marking the International Day of the Girl, 17-year-old Rao was honored at the first-ever “Girls Leading Change” celebration at the White House to recognise the efforts of young women in strengthening the country for generations.
“It is my honor to celebrate this exceptional group of 'Girls Leading Change' at the White House,” Jill Biden, an educator for more than 30 years, said.
“These young women are protecting and preserving the earth, writing and sharing stories that change minds, and turning their pain into purpose. Together, they represent the potential of young people across the country, and it is my hope that others can learn from the power of their innovation, strength, and hope,” she said.
Rao, a first-year student at MIT, is a scientist and inventor whose ground-breaking lead contamination detection gadget earned her the EPA Presidential Award and the Discovery Education/3M America's Top Young Scientist title.
Her book, "Young Innovator's Guide to STEM," which gives a five-step invention process that is prescribed, is used as a STEM curriculum in some schools throughout the world.
“Rao is committed to not only continuing her career as a scientist and inventor, but expanding her STEM education initiative, which has already touched more than 80,000 elementary, middle, and high school students,” the White House release said.