The dream of many young people begins to come true: being scientists, researchers, taking an active role in their own education. Ilum, an interdisciplinary undergraduate program in science, technology and innovation at CNPEM, emerged to provide an opportunity to these future scientists. With an innovative model, active teaching methodology, emphasis on group work, and classroom and hands-on teaching by trained educators who encourage students and equip them to find answers to the questions they formulate, this free and top-flight school deserves acclaim from the entire population. Its importance in the undergraduate educational scenario cannot be measured, since this is where answers emerge, where curiosity meets creativity. I’m very grateful to all the teachers, to those who came up with the idea for this institution, and I wish all the best for Brazil’s future scientists. Congratulations to each “young Ilum,” for their achievements every day! May the light that guides you be ever stronger. “The world needs curious and questioning minds” (Ilum).