In a remarkable achievement, Numbu Holix, a 2022 graduate of the Future African Scientist program, secured third place at the 2023 Falling Walls Lab competition in Cameroon. Competing against 12 PhD candidates, Numbu's groundbreaking research in early detection methods for pancreatic cancer stood out, inspired by an Africa Science Research Bootcamp lesson on research commercialization.

Pancreatic cancer is notoriously deadly, ranking as the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. The disease’s early-stage symptoms are often undetectable, causing patients to miss crucial windows for diagnosis and treatment. Fueled by a passion for addressing this challenge, Numbu aimed to "break the wall" of pancreatic cancer at the Falling Walls Lab competition.

Numbu's innovative approach leverages stem cell technology to isolate pancreatic cells from a blood sample. These cells are cultured and allowed to progress to their cancerous stage, enabling the identification of early diagnostic markers using Next Generation Sequencing. This novel method captured the judges' attention, earning Numbu a prestigious third-place finish in the competition.

Reflecting on this achievement, Numbu emphasizes the importance of practical experience and hands-on skills in his journey toward realizing his dreams. He recognizes the transformative potential of internships, symposiums, and conferences in expanding his knowledge and expertise. By actively seeking these experiences, Numbu aims to develop his communication skills, foster collaboration, and gain deeper insights, ultimately becoming an integral part of a sustainable and impactful community.

Numbu Holix’s story is a testament to the power of innovation and the drive to tackle some of humanity’s most pressing health challenges. His call for support to advance his impactful idea underscores the need for continued investment in promising research and the next generation of African scientists. He is actively seeking mentorship and is open to conversations with anyone who can help him take his groundbreaking idea to the next level. If you are interested in supporting Numbu, please email us at futureafricanscientist@gmail.com