Meet Lianna Genovese, 19, whose simple gadget helps people paint again

Lianna Genovese, a 19-year-old Canadian student, has developed a simple yet groundbreaking device that allows people with cerebral palsy to paint again. Cerebral palsy affects an estimated 18 million people worldwide, with around 1 in every 345 children diagnosed in the United States. Most children with the condition are unable to enjoy the same toys and activities as their peers, but Genovese's invention has changed that.

Inspired by the story of Elissa, a fellow cerebral palsy sufferer who lost the ability to paint, Genovese created a device that uses larger arm and shoulder movements to compensate for the limitations of fine hand movements. The device, called Guided Hands, is a 3D-printer-inspired system that guides hand movements using linear axes and bearings, allowing users to perform horizontal and vertical movements and change the direction of motion.

Users can attach different objects to the end of the device, such as a pen, marker, brush, or stylus for touch screens. Genovese founded ImaginAble Solutions in 2019 to develop and commercialize assistive technologies, and the company officially launched the Guided Hands device in 2022. Genovese's work has been recognized with numerous awards, including the Canadian stage of the James Dyson Award in 2021 and Forbes 30 Under 30 Local Toronto list in 2023.

She also received the Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Award in 2024 for her work on inclusion and quality of life for people with disabilities.