In the realm of innovation and healthcare technology, one name shines brightly: Naya Ellis. At just 14 years old, Naya has captivated the world with her groundbreaking invention—the WingItt watch—a stroke-detecting device inspired by personal experiences and fueled by a passion for making a difference.
Naya’s journey into the world of invention began with a deeply personal motivation. Witnessing her mother’s battle with breast cancer at a young age, she felt a calling to use her scientific curiosity to create solutions that could improve lives. As a freshman at John F. Kennedy High School in New Orleans, she found her outlet for creativity and compassion.
Inspired by her grandmother’s struggle with stroke, Naya embarked on a mission to develop a device that could detect strokes early, potentially saving lives. Her invention, the WingItt watch, is a testament to her ingenuity and determination. By harnessing cutting-edge technology to monitor nerve impulses and heartbeats, WingItt identifies early signs of stroke, offering a vital warning system for those at risk.
The genesis of WingItt traces back to Naya’s participation in the STEM NOLA program—an initiative aimed at empowering young minds in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Through this program, Naya found the support and resources she needed to turn her vision into reality. Stemming from her initial idea of creating a device to detect seizures, Naya pivoted to stroke detection, recognizing the urgent need for innovative solutions in this area.
WingItt’s design reflects Naya’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity in healthcare. Aware of the prevalence of strokes among adults over 55, she aimed to create a device tailored to this demographic. However, her vision extends beyond age demographics—she dreams of making WingItt accessible to everyone, irrespective of age or socioeconomic status. By prioritizing affordability, Naya hopes to democratize access to life-saving healthcare technology, ensuring that no one is left behind.
Naya’s achievements have not gone unnoticed. Her victory in the National STEM Challenge, where she was named a champion out of over 2,500 participants nationwide, catapulted her into the spotlight. She will have the opportunity to showcase WingItt at the prestigious National STEM Festival in Washington, D.C., rubbing shoulders with prominent STEM experts and innovators.
Looking to the future, Naya’s ambitions remain steadfast. While she continues to pursue her passion for innovation, she also harbors dreams of a career in medicine, aspiring to become an obstetrician-gynecologist. Her dedication to women’s health and her desire to bring new life into the world underscore her commitment to making a meaningful impact.
Naya Ellis is more than just a teenage inventor—she is a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring innovators everywhere. Her journey exemplifies the transformative power of STEM education and the boundless potential of young women to shape a better world. With WingItt, she not only detects strokes but also ignites a spark of possibility for a brighter, healthier future for us all.
In the realm of academia, there are few achievements as remarkable as setting a new standard of excellence. Priscilla Paul-Worika, a 23-year-old Nigerian pharmacist, has not only shattered records but has also set a new benchmark for academic achievement in pharmacy education. With a stellar CGPA of 4.78 out of 5.00, Priscilla has emerged as the overall best graduating student from the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT).
Hailing from Ogu/Bolo Local Government Area in Nigeria and proudly representing the Paul-Worika Family and the Worika Group of Houses, Priscilla’s academic journey is nothing short of inspiring. Her induction into the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) as the top graduate is a testament to her dedication, hard work, and the unwavering support of her community.
Priscilla‘s academic prowess is not only impressive but also record-breaking. Her CGPA of 4.78 surpasses the previous record of 4.51, setting a new standard of excellence in pharmacy education at UNIPORT. This remarkable achievement speaks volumes about her commitment to academic excellence and her relentless pursuit of knowledge.
The induction ceremony into the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria, held on April 19th at the Ebitimi Banigo Hall, University of Port Harcourt, Abuja Park, was a momentous occasion for Priscilla. It was a celebration of her outstanding achievements and a recognition of her contributions to the field of pharmacy.
