He Worked The Night Shift At Burger King After Graduation — Now Strangers Have Raised Over $180,000 For His Future

June 2, 2025

Today's good news story comes from Dacula, Georgia.

When Maria Mendoza stopped by a Burger King after her child’s graduation, she was simply craving a Whopper. What she found instead was a moment that touched the hearts of thousands.

Maria and Mykale

Inside the restaurant, she saw a young employee still dressed in his graduation gown and medals, working the late shift. She snapped a quick video and shared it on TikTok with the caption:

"TikTok do your thing.. this young boy went straight to work at Burger King right after his graduation."

Moved by his dedication, Maria launched a GoFundMe campaign to help the young man, later identified as Mykale Baker, take the next step toward college.

"While many graduates spent the night celebrating with friends and family, one young man quietly showed the world what determination looks like," she wrote on the fundraising page. "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."

The original goal was just $5,000. But after Maria returned to Burger King to surprise Mykale with the first wave of donations—already up to $6,000—he was brought to tears.

Now, just a few weeks later, the fundraiser has exploded to over $181,000 and counting.

Messages of support have poured in from around the world:

"Congratulations, Mykale! Your genuine work ethic and dedication are inspiring, and will certainly take you far in life."

 "May God continue blessing you. You have a bright future ahead. The sky is the limit. Don't settle for anything less than you deserve."

In addition to financial contributions, Mykale has received thousands of uplifting comments encouraging him to pursue his dreams.

Congratulations, Mykale — your hard work is not going unnoticed, and the world is cheering you on.