Gitanjali Rao recognized early on that curiosity and compassion could drive remarkable innovation. At just 11 years old, she began tackling the global challenge of water safety, ultimately creating Tethys, a pioneering device designed to detect lead contamination more efficiently than traditional methods. By 2020, she had gained national recognition, earning the distinction of becoming TIME’s first-ever “Kid of the Year.” You can learn more about her achievements in this Forbes Article that profiles her inventive spirit. Gitanjali’s journey perfectly illustrates the concept of an early starter—someone who capitalizes on synergy and compounding opportunities, turning a youthful passion for science into a meaningful force for social change.

A Spark for Science at an Early Age

Growing up, Gitanjali was fascinated by science and how simple experiments could shed light on complex issues. She spent countless hours reading about environmental challenges and public health concerns. Hearing about water contamination crises, such as the Flint, Michigan, emergency, pushed her to think: What can I do about this? Rather than waiting to enter a research lab in college, she decided to act while still in middle school.

Her approach was guided by a firm belief that young people can spearhead real-world change. “If I see a problem, I want to fix it,” Gitanjali once said. “It doesn’t matter if you’re 10, 15, or 50—everyone can contribute solutions.” This mindset allowed her to harness her natural curiosity, while also learning the ropes of scientific investigation from a young age.

The Birth of Tethys

After researching the limitations of existing lead detection methods, Gitanjali realized many were cumbersome, slow, or required specialized tools that everyday people didn’t have. Inspired by other emerging technologies, she combined carbon nanotube sensors with smartphone connectivity, aiming to create a user-friendly and inexpensive test for lead in water.

That effort evolved into Tethys, a device that alerts users to potentially hazardous lead levels quickly. Gitanjali’s invention didn’t just capture the attention of environmental activists; it also drew interest from scientists, educational institutions, and media outlets impressed by her youthful determination. She refined her prototypes through trial and error, each misstep teaching her something new. This iterative process showcases how synergy and compounding opportunities function in the life of an early starter: every insight led to a more accurate sensor, and every piece of feedback made the device more practical.

Navigating Skepticism and Finding Mentors

A middle school student pitching a lead-testing device inevitably faced skepticism. Some questioned whether she had the technical know-how to develop reliable equipment. Others wondered if a young inventor could handle the ethical and regulatory complexities of public health solutions. Gitanjali didn’t let these doubts deter her. Instead, she actively sought mentors—teachers, scientists, and engineers who recognized her drive and offered guidance.

She credits these relationships with helping her sharpen her ideas, learn about patent processes, and explore different paths for scaling Tethys. By surrounding herself with supportive adults and peers, she gained both the expertise and the confidence to move forward. “I never saw my age as a barrier,” she explained in one of her interviews, “I just saw it as extra time to learn and improve.”

Being Named TIME’s “Kid of the Year”

In 2020, Gitanjali’s dedication earned her a landmark recognition: she was selected as TIME’s first-ever “Kid of the Year.” The accolade was a testament not only to her success with Tethys but also to her broader mission of inspiring young people to address the world’s most pressing problems. She used the platform to highlight other youth innovators and to emphasize the importance of collaboration.

During media appearances following the honor, Gitanjali reiterated the core message behind her work: that innovation isn’t about waiting until you have a certain degree or title, but about putting your ideas into action. “Anyone can make a difference,” she said. “The key is to be ready to learn, adapt, and keep trying.”

The Power of Early Momentum

Gitanjali’s story underscores why starting early can lead to compounding returns. By age 11, she was already learning about engineering, coding, and environmental science. This head start allowed her to develop deeper expertise each year, layering new knowledge on top of foundational experiences. While others might catch the innovation bug in high school or college, she had already spent years honing her approach to problem-solving.

Moreover, Gitanjali turned every milestone—whether a local science fair win or media coverage—into a stepping stone for bigger endeavors. Each achievement introduced her to new collaborators, fresh perspectives, and advanced resources. Over time, these small gains accumulated, making it possible for her to aim higher and, in turn, achieve more.

A Vision for the Future

Despite her successes, Gitanjali remains focused on using technology to tackle global issues. She’s explored ways to detect cyberbullying, measure opioid addiction risk, and address other social challenges. Her vision extends beyond the projects themselves; she wants to spark a cultural shift where more kids see themselves as inventors, coders, and change-makers. “We’re not just the leaders of tomorrow,” she once noted. “We can lead today if we decide to.”

Her willingness to share knowledge is another hallmark of an early starter who understands synergy. By mentoring peers, speaking at conferences, and publishing articles, she amplifies her own impact while helping the next wave of young innovators step up. In that sense, every workshop or talk she gives can catalyze another student’s breakthrough idea.

Who Inspires You?

Gitanjali Rao’s story shows that you don’t need to wait until adulthood to begin shaping a better world. Starting at 11, she invented Tethys to detect lead in water, earning TIME’s Kid of the Year accolade and forging a path as a role model for budding scientists everywhere. Her example demonstrates how synergy—linking each success to the next—can transform an initial spark of curiosity into a transformative life’s work.

Now, it’s time to reflect on the change-makers you know. Is there someone in your life who began pursuing their passions early, stacking small wins into something extraordinary? Maybe you have a younger sibling who’s coding after school or a friend who’s launched a local recycling campaign. Share these stories or your own, because they just might inspire someone else to take that first, daring step toward shaping the future—no matter their age.