Lily Born was just 12-year-old when she created the Kangaroo cup. At age 8, she noticed her grandfather’s struggle with Parkinson’s disease that made him prone to spilling drinks. With encouragement from her father, she designed the Kangaroo Cup, a spill-proof cup with three legs for added stability. After raising $20,000 through Indiegogo and Kickstarter in 2012, they launched the ceramic version, selling thousands of cups.

This invention has earned Lily Born national recognition, including the Young Wonder Award at the 2014 CNN Heroes tribute and participation in the 2015 White House Science Fair. She has also traveled as an ambassador for Independent Youth, encouraging young entrepreneurs on her travels. Lily has also been recognized by A Mighty Girl and Amy Poehler’s Smart Girls as someone who inspires other girls to follow their passions and dreams.