Gen Z Changemakers That Are Redefining Healthcare and Making an Impact


Published on October 09, 2023

Forbes’ 2023 30 Under 30 roster spotlights outstanding emerging talent across diverse fields. This annual list celebrates young achievers who’ve made significant impacts in industries like technology, entrepreneurship, healthcare, and entertainment. Honorees are selected based on their exceptional achievements and potential to shape the future.

The 2023 list underscores the diverse and innovative contributions of these young leaders, showcasing the influence of youth-driven innovation and entrepreneurship in our rapidly evolving world. According to Lach Black, founder of healthcare startup Clearblow, and an aspiring 30-under-30 entrepreneur, “We’re all driven to effect change and create a positive impact in the world, whether it’s aiding those in need or championing social causes.” His company seeks to aid those with chronic lung conditions empower themselves by maintaining lung health via a smart Bluetooth-enabled app. As with these 30-under-30 stars in the Healthcare field, these young individuals are melding technology with healthcare innovations.

Joan Zhang, a 27-year-old co-founder of Arise, is making a difference in the world of eating disorder treatment. With nearly 1 in 10 individuals facing these challenges in their lifetime, Joan’s company, Arise, is pioneering a virtual care network to enhance access to crucial treatment. Currently serving the community in Texas and supported by BlueCross BlueShield of Texas, Arise is dedicated to bridging the gap and ensuring that those in need of eating disorder care receive the support they require. Joan Zhang’s innovative approach holds the potential to transform the landscape of eating disorder treatment, providing hope and help to many.

Katie-Rose Skelly, co-founder of Known Medicine, is on a mission to improve the odds in cancer treatment. With just 3.4% of oncology drugs in clinical trials successfully reaching the market and half of late-stage cancer patients not benefiting from their initial treatment, Katie-Rose’s innovative approach is gaining traction. Known Medicine utilizes machine learning to predict patient outcomes, a concept that has garnered substantial support with $7.2 million in seed funding from investors. Her pioneering work aims to enhance the effectiveness of cancer treatments and offer hope to patients facing this formidable challenge.

Gen Z Changemakers That Are Redefining Healthcare and Making an Impact

Nikhil Patel, the enterprising 23-year-old founder of Craniometrix, is at the forefront of medical innovation. Nikhil’s leadership is characterized by his dedication to harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI) and medical imaging to enhance patient care and diagnostic precision. Craniometrix specializes in developing AI-driven solutions for cranial image analysis and is currently developing an easy-to-use Alzheimer’s test that can be taken on a smartphone.

Saumya Sao, a 24-year-old co-founder of The Violet Project, is making a significant impact in Maryland. This non-profit organization has introduced a digital health platform aimed at supporting the youth by providing free period packs containing essential items like pads, tampons, and panty liners. Additionally, The Violet Project ensures access to safe sex products and offers support to clients who test positive for STIs by connecting them with qualified healthcare professionals for appropriate treatment. Saumya Sao’s dedication to addressing essential health needs and promoting safe practices is positively influencing the lives of young individuals in Maryland.

Assistant Managing Editor