Scope: In 2014, the tap water in the city of Flint, Michigan, became contaminated with a toxic metal called lead. What did you think when you heard about the crisis?
Gitanjali: Lead can cause a lot of harm to the human body. It was scary that so many people, especially kids, were having to drink what is basically poison every day. I wanted to do something that could help.
Scope: So you invented a water-testing device. How does it work?
Gitanjali: The device is called Tethys. It has special sensors that you dunk into water to measure how much lead is present. Then the device sends the data to an app on your phone. The app tells you whether the water is safe, slightly contaminated, or critically contaminated.
Scope: How did you come up with the name Tethys?
Gitanjali: Tethys is the Greek goddess of fresh water. I named my device after her.
Scope: What makes Tethys better than other devices that test water for lead?
Gitanjali: Right now, you can test your water using lead test strips, which are not always accurate, or you can send it to a lab, which is time consuming, inconvenient, and expensive. Tethys measures lead levels more accurately and faster than other technologies. It’s also cheaper.
Scope: Why is it important that Tethys be affordable?
Gitanjali: I believe access to clean water is a human right, and we shouldn’t put a price on clean water.
Scope: What is your goal for Tethys?
Gitanjali: I’m still making adjustments, but eventually I want it to be sold in stores so that anyone can buy it and use it in their home. I especially want Tethys to be available to families who live in places like Flint, where the water has become contaminated. I’m also hoping that schools will use my device.
Scope: What advice would you give to other kids who have an idea for an invention?
Gitanjali: Don’t be afraid to try. I’ve always loved inventing things, but before Tethys, I had never started an invention and stuck with it to the end. I was always too afraid that my idea wouldn’t end up being successful, and that fear held me back. Now that I’ve created Tethys, I’m not afraid to try anymore.