Menendez said his interest in science began when he was very young. He travelled a lot with his mother due to her career as an engineer, and he was constantly surrounded by books.

“I was surrounded by books like math books, puzzle books, encyclopedias and atlases,” he said. “Even before starting school, I was captivated by educational videos, websites and apps. I loved going to museums. I loved going to science festivals”

At home we try and encourage our eldest to participate in similar activities and books. I hope he develops a similar passion for learning as this young man. This gives me more hope for the future!

Who paid for his education?