Murhaf Hamid, an 11-year-old Black boy from Sweden who raised an incredible $233,000 for the Majblomman (Mayflower) children’s charity. He became viral on social media after recounting his encounter with bigotry while out collecting money.
Children typically raise roughly 1,300 kronor ($126) in the customary yearly campaign by selling paper flower pins. According to AFP, Hamid’s efforts have exploded, with a total of 2.4 million kronor ($233,000) raised so far.
The proceeds benefit a charity that assists disadvantaged children in Sweden, while the young fundraisers receive a 10% fee on pin sales and can retain any tips they receive.
On his first day of fundraising, Hamid, whose parents are Ethiopian, witnessed racism when several adults instructed him to leave the street. In 5 hours, he only sold a few pins.
He suspected racism, and his story went viral after a family friend published it on Facebook. Despite some racist remarks, the post received widespread acceptance. Even politicians, such as Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, purchased pins from him.
Laila Rahman, a family friend who published the viral Facebook post, stressed that Hamid’s tale is more than just about fundraising. It is also bringing attention to a boy born in Sweden nearly 12 years ago, whose family’s asylum application is still pending. After successfully gathering funds, Hamid considered purchasing a permanent residency. Unfortunately, this is not an option.
Hamid initially aimed to earn some pocket money but ended up exceeding all expectations. He said, “I’m going to buy myself some clothes, trainers, and a few things for my family.”
