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‘Make the world a little better:’ Winter Park 12-year-old awarded for invention that helps hearing impaired students

Arabella Romsa winner of MED-EL IDEASforEARS contest

Arabella Romsa, a young innovator from Winter Park, has been announced as the winner of this year’s prestigious MED-EL IDEASforEARS contest. (Copyright 2025 by WKMG ClickOrlando - All rights reserved.)

WINTER PARK, Fla. – In a heartwarming surprise, 12-year-old Arabella Romsa, a young innovator from Winter Park has been announced as the winner of this year’s prestigious MED-EL IDEASforEARS contest.

Her groundbreaking invention, a device designed to assist students with cochlear implants in transcribing classroom notes, has earned her international recognition and an exciting opportunity.

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Arabella’s invention, a USB device that connects to a cochlear implant, records lessons and allows students to later transcribe their notes on a computer. This innovative idea was born from Arabella’s own classroom experiences, where she realized the need for a tool to help students like her who face challenges in hearing and note-taking.

As part of her prize, Arabella and her family will travel to Innsbruck, Austria, to visit MED-EL’s headquarters. There, she will meet other young inventors from around the world, all of whom share a passion for improving the lives of those with hearing loss through technology.

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“I was trying really hard to think of something,” Arabella shared. “And then I think I was in my classroom, and I missed something. And then that’s when my idea popped up in my head. I feel like if I could help people like me, who have a hard time in school, and just make the world a little better.”

Arabella’s excitement is palpable as she prepares for this incredible journey.

“I’ve been waiting for this! I wasn’t sure, and I’ve been, like, so nervous if I was going to win or not. And I did! So I’m excited,” she said.

Arabella’s story is a testament to the power of innovation and determination, proving that even the smallest ideas can make a significant impact on the world.


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