A winner of WHRO Education’s annual writing contest has been quite busy since penning her winning story in 2024. Mayukha Khambhammettu won first place in the Kindergarten category two years ago, and she racked up even more accolades this year – this time in a science competition.
Mayukha recently participated in the ExploraVision National Science Competition conducted by NSTA and TOSHIBA, a highly regarded STEM program that engages students in research and innovation. Her team first earned 1st place at the regional level, representing a highly competitive region that includes Armed Forces Europe as well as multiple states (NJ, PA, VA, WV, MD, DC, and DE).
Following this, her team went on to achieve 2nd place nationally in the 2026 ExploraVision competition, which includes participants from across the United States and Canada.
As part of this honor, she was invited to present her project to members of Congress on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. in early June, and a formal medal ceremony took place later that day. In addition, she was also invited to present at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C.
The Toshiba/NSTA ExploraVision competition is designed to inspire students to develop the skills emphasized in the Next Generation Science Standards, including problem-solving, critical-thinking and collaboration skills. To participate, students must imagine and produce a system or a technology with the potential to solve the problems of the future. Regional finalist ideas were judged by a multidisciplinary panel of scientists across various sectors of government (e.g., NIH, NASA, NSF), academic researchers, biotechnology scientists and physician researchers.
Mayukha, who attends Deep Creek Central Elementary School in Chesapeake, and her teammate, Avik Devarapalli, who attends North Landing Elementary School in Virginia Beach, won second place for grades K-3.
Their winning project is a concept for “Buddy Band,” a child-friendly virus detection wearable device. Infections like the flu, colds and stomach viruses are among the leading health concerns for kids. The device would alert students when the air around them poses a high risk of exposure to viruses. Students could then take actions such as using hand sanitizer or washing their hands.
Learn more about their project on the ExploraVision website.
Mayukha’s mother, Mounica Gaddam, served as the team’s coach. She credits her daughter’s experience in the WHRO annual writers contest, which gave her the confidence to compete in the science competition.
Congratulations, Mayukha and Avik!
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