Just hours after graduating high school, 18-year-old Mykale Baker returned to his job at Burger King—still proudly wearing his graduation stole and medals. While classmates celebrated, the Georgia teen stepped behind the counter to help during a busy evening shift, unaware his quiet act of dedication would change his life.
Baker had gone to the restaurant with his mother and grandmother to celebrate his Mill Creek High School graduation. But when he saw the team short-staffed, he didn’t hesitate to lend a hand.
One customer that night, Maria Mendoza, had just attended her daughter’s graduation. She was deeply moved by Baker’s joyful attitude and humility. “He was so polite, so joyful,” she told 11 Alive News. Inspired, she filmed a short video of him and posted it to TikTok with the caption: “TikTok, do your thing!”
The video went viral, racking up over 4.5 million views and praise from across the country. Mendoza went a step further, launching a GoFundMe to support Baker’s college goals. The response was overwhelming—over $230,000 was raised, far beyond the initial $60,000 goal.
On May 26, Mendoza surprised Baker with the first $6,000. Overcome with emotion, he was brought to tears. “He’s always done the right thing,” said his sister, Mycah Baker. “That’s just who he is.”
Thanks to the support, Baker now plans to pursue technical college and a career in mechanics. The Burger King Foundation also contributed a $10,000 scholarship.
His simple act of kindness became a national reminder of quiet integrity and selfless dedication.
