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Kenton LeeAmerican, inventor.
Country:
 USA |
Content:
- Biography of Kenton Lee
- Inspiration and Invention
- Addressing the Problem
- The Current Model
- Impact and Work with Children
Biography of Kenton Lee
Kenton Lee is an American inventor who is known for his innovative solution to the problem of children outgrowing their shoes too quickly. His invention has the potential to greatly benefit residents of developing countries who struggle to afford new shoes for their children.
Inspiration and Invention
The idea for Lee's invention came to him when he was working in Nairobi, Kenya. While there, he noticed many children running around barefoot or wearing shoes that were too small for them. The local residents could not afford to regularly buy new shoes for their children, and the rapid growth of children made it even more challenging to keep them properly equipped.
This observation sparked Lee's determination to find a solution. After considering various options, he came up with the idea of shoes that could adjust their size while being worn. He developed a new shoe model that could expand up to five sizes, both in length and width. Using principles similar to those found in traditional sandals, Lee created a practical and comfortable shoe design.
Addressing the Problem
Lee's invention offers a significant improvement in the lives of children in developing countries. Instead of constantly needing new shoes as their feet grow, they can now have one pair that will last for a much longer period. This is especially important for children between the ages of 2 and 6, as their bodies undergo rapid changes. Even in wealthy, developed countries, keeping up with the constant need for new shoes can be a challenge. For those in developing countries, it is often an impossible burden.
Furthermore, the lack of proper footwear exposes children to various risks. Without shoes, they are vulnerable to foot injuries and can easily contract infections or parasites. Lee's design includes a durable rubber sole to protect the child's feet from potential hazards, while the soft leather upper ensures comfort. The shoes also feature adjustable fastenings to accommodate different foot sizes and shapes.
The Current Model
At present, Kenton Lee offers two main models of his innovative shoes. One is designed for young children, from kindergarten to early elementary school, while the other is made for middle school students. Unfortunately, the current price of the shoes is $30 per pair, which may be unaffordable for the target audience. However, bulk purchases of 100 pairs or more can lower the cost to $12 per pair. Lee continues to explore options for making his shoes more affordable.
Currently, Kenton Lee is actively collaborating with the charitable organization "Because International." It is expected that this organization will help distribute Lee's shoes to African orphanages. While the capacity of one organization is limited, the assistance of other companies and movements within "Because International" is encouraged. Any charitable organization can participate in missions to Africa and provide much-needed footwear to children in need.
Impact and Work with Children
Kenton Lee has already made a significant impact on the lives of orphans in Nairobi. During his time as a staff member at "Motherly Care Children's Home," Lee assisted and cared for 140 local children. It was his experiences with these children that inspired him to create his innovative shoe model. Helping children in developing countries is a key focus for many charitable organizations worldwide. While some organizations tackle educational issues, others focus on addressing material needs. Unfortunately, even access to clean water is a luxury for many, and having comfortable and practical footwear often becomes a sign of affluence.
