Young inventor sparks interest in community

In the Sept. 6 edition of Young Achievers, readers were introduced to Grant Edwards, a 17-year-old with a knack for inventing. For years, he has been taking forgotten recycled materials and turning them into useful contraptions.

In June, his creativity was awarded at the State University of New York Oswego 2011 Global Environmental Issues U.S (GENIUS) Olympiad competition. There, Grant was awarded gold and a most-innovative prize for his self-sterilizing doorknob.

The community response to Grant's story of success in creating inventions was huge. It was a pleasant surprise to come in the morning after publication and have emails from "Charlotte Today" host Colleen Odegaard, representatives of U.S. Rep. Sue Myrick, a number of readers and other television stations.

Clearly Grant's story was well-received by readers, and we want to continue to capture amazing youth in your communities.

Do you know of a young person younger than 21 in your area who has an inspiring story? We want to know! Comment on the blog with your ideas, or send them to youngachievers@charlotteobserver.com.

To check out Grant's story and learn about science fair opportunities in the area, or to read about others successful individuals, visit the Young Achievers page online.