Naila Moloo is a talented young innovator and the inaugural winner of the Ingenious+ challenge in 2022. Ingenious+ is an innovation challenge for young innovators aged 14-18 to showcase their ideas and solutions that can improve the world. Naila’s project, a transparent and flexible solar cell, impressed the judges and earned her first place.
Naila’s project combines the fields of solar energy and nanotechnology, utilizing electrodeposited silver nanowires, a multi-junction semi-transparent perovskite, a nickel oxide hole transport layer, and a tin oxide electron transport layer to create a flexible solar cell. Her innovation has the potential to revolutionize the applications of solar energy, such as in bendable electronics, smart clothing, and solar windows. When asked what advice she would give to someone applying to Ingenious+, Naila Moloo said, “It can be scary to put yourself out there, and your ideas, but just go for it and be authentic.” Naila believes that by being genuine and true to oneself, an applicant can showcase their unique perspective and passion. She also added, “there is nothing to lose but so much gain.”
“It can be scary to put yourself out there, and your ideas, but just go for it and be authentic. There is nothing to lose but so much gain.”
Naila Moloo
Aside from her work in solar energy, Naila is also a published author with two novels under her belt. In addition, she is actively involved in developing bioplastics through her internship at Pond Biomaterials and has worked in a BioChem lab at Carleton University. Furthermore, Naila is a co-host of The Curiosity Podcast, which focuses on equipping young people with skills that they will need to succeed in the future. Naila’s success and accomplishments serve as an inspiration to her peers and demonstrate that with determination and hard work, anyone can make a difference in their community and beyond.
