Burger King Teen Who Picked Up A Shift In His Graduation Outfit After High School Ceremony Receives $22K In Donations
Mykale Baker, who works at a Burger King in Dacula, Georgia, noticed a late-night crowd on May 21 and stepped in to help by picking up a shift that same evening.
His outfit didn’t go unnoticed. A customer named Maria Mendoza, who happened to be there, spotted him and recorded a TikTok of Baker. She was moved by how he chose to get right back to work instead of kicking off his summer break.
“While many graduates spent the night celebrating with friends and family, one young man quietly showed the world what determination looks like.” Mendoza wrote on GoFundMe. “Just after receiving his diploma—still proudly wearing his medals—he reported to his shift at Burger King.”
The heartwarming moment between Mendoza and Baker happened at the drive-thru window around 10 p.m., not long after Mendoza had attended her own daughter’s graduation from the same high school in Hoschton, roughly 40 miles from Atlanta.
She shared a short 20-second video of their interaction, which quickly went viral and has now been watched over 3 million times.
“He didn’t do it for attention. He doesn’t even know his story went viral. But thousands of people were moved by his dedication, humility, and work ethic.” she wrote.
The fundraiser took off quickly, raising more than $22,000. Every dollar is going straight to Baker to help him continue his education.
“His dedication and quiet strength really moved me. I felt called to do something to recognize that.” she told 11 Alive. “I’m just grateful I got to do something for him.”
The young graduate was overwhelmed by the kindness of nearly 1,000 strangers. A second TikTok video showed him hugging his mother and Mendoza, clearly emotional and thankful.
In the video, Baker opened up about how unsure he felt after graduation. Financial struggles had made him question whether college was even an option, but he still hoped to attend trade school.
“I never thought this would happen to me, I’m very thankful.” Baker added, his voice breaking with emotion.
