Each day, 17 people die waiting for an organ transplant. To address this urgent need, my team and I created "Alara," a project focused on 3D bioprinting organs in space. This initiative was developed through The Knowledge Society's Moonshot Project, which challenges young innovators to devise groundbreaking solutions to global issues.
Through Alara, we explored the potential of bioprinting in microgravity, studying how the unique conditions of space can enhance the precision and viability of organ printing compared to Earth-based methods. We designed a roadmap for preclinical trials to bring this vision closer to reality.
Our work included publishing an article, creating a one-pager, building a website, and presenting our concept to industry professionals. After our presentation, we received an Innovation Award.
I had the opportunity to participate in the Stanford Neurodiversity Project’s Research, Education, and Advocacy Camp for High Schoolers (SNP-REACH). Through this program, my team and I explored the social model of neurodiversity and the latest research in the field. This experience inspired us to create Brain Sparkz, a platform dedicated to raising awareness and providing resources on neurodiversity.
We presented Brain Sparkz to The Network for K-12 Neurodiversity Education and Advocacy and, later, at the Stanford Neurodiversity Summit 2023. Our platform offers valuable information and insights to help foster a more inclusive and understanding society.
Globally, 1.16 billion people experience hearing impairments and use sign language to communicate, creating a significant communication gap between signers and non-signers. To address this, I have developed several projects to improve accessibility and bridge this gap.
I created computer vision programs that translate sign language, and I developed a smart glove that converts sign language into spoken words. Additionally, I published a book on Amazon detailing my work in Sign Language Translation. Morover, to encourage more people to learn American Sign Language (ASL), I built an app using Flutter that teaches ASL through interactive videos. The app is unique in incorporating computer vision (via Google’s Teachable Machine), allowing learners to test and improve their signing skills—something no other app currently offers. I also presented these innovations at the Anatolia Science and Technology Conference, where I won the Social Responsibility Award. Together with my best friend, we also conceptualized "Sixth Sense," a haptic device designed to facilitate communication between deaf athletes and referees. This project became a Top-10 Finalist in the World Series of Innovation. We also placed 5th in the Generation Next Vodafone Competition with our project, SIGNificant, focusing on the bridging the communication gap between signers and non-signers.
I live in a small Greek city called Arta, where research and volunteer opportunities are scarce. As a science enthusiast, it was challenging to find resources to explore my interests in medicine and related fields. To pursue my passions, I spent countless hours searching for online internships, courses, and tools that I could access from home.
This experience inspired me to create Thriving Teens. Through Thriving Teens, I share the opportunities I’ve discovered over the years to help others who may face similar challenges. Members receive weekly newsletters featuring high-quality opportunities, including internships, courses, and competitions. We also offer project-based crash courses to teach both hard and soft skills, empowering students to explore their interests and expand their horizons.
Thriving Teens is my way of making these resources accessible, helping young people everywhere feel encouraged to pursue their passions and connect with a world of learning.
At The Knowledge Society (TKS), my team and I tackled real-life challenges and developed recommendation decks for major organizations like the World Economic Forum and Google. This experience introduced me to new tools like Figma and exposed me to the process of analyzing case studies. Working on these projects for the first time taught me valuable skills in problem-solving, collaboration, and strategic thinking.
I analyzed microloan business opportunities tailored specifically for women entrepreneurs in underserved countries and developed "BridgeWomen," a project aimed at supporting these efforts. As part of this initiative, my team and I created a comprehensive market plan for a 59-year-old tailor from rural Turkey, using insights gathered from forum discussions and research.
The summer before my 12th grade, I wrote two books exploring my interests in neuroscience and neurodiversity. The first is an introductory guide to neuroscience, aimed at making complex concepts accessible to a wider audience. The second, titled "Atypical," is a story about a neurotypical boy navigating a neurodiverse world, designed to foster understanding and empathy. I am currently preparing both books for publication on Amazon, where I hope they can inspire readers to learn more about the brain and embrace neurodiversity