At just 12 years old, Mari Copeny, known as “Little Miss Flint,” tackled a critical issue with remarkable ingenuity. Driven by a desire to improve air quality in classrooms, Mari invented simple, affordable air purifiers using everyday materials like cardboard, box fans, and filters. These DIY units are capable of removing up to 90% of airborne viruses, pollutants, and allergens.
Her project was so successful that she helped secure $11.5 million in state funding to expand the initiative statewide across Michigan.
This wasn’t just a school science project. This was a brilliant, life-changing innovation. It’s an inspiring testament to the power of young minds and how innovation, driven by care, can create safer, healthier environments for countless others.