A 12-year-old boy from Svendborg became an internet sensation after a local resident spotted him clearing snow from a bus stop without being asked. Felix Gubi had just finished helping his grandmother when he stopped to shovel snow at the bus shelter, making it safe for passengers. His simple act of kindness sparked thousands of reactions on social media.
The Viral Moment That Captured Denmark
Denmark experienced heavy snowfall last Friday, blanketing roads and sidewalks across the country. As communities struggled with the sudden winter weather, one young person decided to take action. Felix Gubi, a 12-year-old from Svendborg, was cycling home with a shovel in his backpack when he came across a snow-covered bus stop on Ryttervej. Without hesitation, he pulled out his shovel and began clearing the area.
Pia Ewe Mikkelsen witnessed the entire scene from her home. She watched as the boy worked carefully and thoroughly, making sure the bus stop was safe and accessible for everyone. When he finished, he cleaned his shovel, packed it neatly back into his backpack, fastened his helmet, and cycled away. Mikkelsen was so impressed that she gave him a fastelavnsbolle, a traditional Danish pastry, as a thank you. However, she forgot to ask his name before he disappeared.
The Search Begins on Social Media
After the mysterious boy left, Mikkelsen shared her story in a Facebook group called “Det sker i Svendborg,” which translates to “It Happens in Svendborg.” She described how a young person with a big heart had appeared out of nowhere to help the community. The post quickly gained attention across Danish social media. Thousands of people liked and shared the story, eager to identify the helpful young person.
The post resonated with many Danes who appreciated seeing kindness during difficult weather conditions. Denmark’s winter weather can be challenging, especially when temperatures drop and heavy snow falls unexpectedly. Commenters praised the boy’s thoughtfulness and wondered who had raised such a considerate child. Mikkelsen ended her post by noting that somewhere, some parents should be very proud. Within days, the search for the mystery snow shoveler became a feel-good story that captured hearts across the country.
Finding Felix – The Boy Behind the Shovel
TV 2 Fyn successfully tracked down the helpful boy after the story went viral. His name is Felix Gubi, and he is 12 years old. At the time the story broke, Felix was on a family vacation at a summer house on Langeland, an island south of Funen. When reporters reached him, Felix explained his simple reasoning for stopping to clear the snow.
Felix had been cycling and needed to cross the road, but a large pile of snow blocked his path. He had just finished helping his grandmother by shoveling snow at her home, so he still had his shovel with him. He decided to clear the snow blocking his way, which would also help others access the nearby bus stop. Felix described the task as tiresome but worth it because it could help people waiting for the bus. His practical thinking and community mindedness impressed everyone who heard the story.
A Family That Values Helping Others
Felix’s mother, Katja Gubi, expressed surprise at the overwhelming attention her son received. She described the experience as somewhat overwhelming, noting that Felix had simply cleared a bit of snow. However, she explained that Felix was raised to help others whenever possible. The family teaches their children to offer their seats to elderly people on buses and to assist when they can make a difference. Katja credited Felix’s father with instilling these values in their son.
Felix himself found the sudden fame somewhat intense. He described the days following the viral post as wild and unexpected. Despite the attention, he remained humble about his actions. The story highlights how small acts of kindness can have a large impact, especially when communities recognize and celebrate them. Mikkelsen’s original post concluded with a reminder that young people like Felix show the best of what society can be.
Community Response and Broader Impact
The Felix Gubi story became popular at a time when many Danes were dealing with challenging winter conditions. Heavy snowfall created difficulties across the country, from blocked roads to dangerous icy conditions. Stories of community members helping each other became particularly meaningful during this period. Felix’s story reminded people that even young children can make positive contributions to their neighborhoods.
Social media played a crucial role in spreading the story and eventually identifying Felix. The Facebook group where Mikkelsen first posted has thousands of members who regularly share local news and stories. The rapid sharing of positive news stories demonstrates how digital platforms can strengthen community bonds. People across Denmark commented that they appreciated hearing uplifting news amid typical winter challenges and daily concerns.
Lessons in Raising Thoughtful Children
Experts in child development often emphasize that children learn helpful behavior through family modeling and consistent teaching. The Gubi family’s approach demonstrates how everyday lessons about consideration for others can shape young people’s actions. Teaching children to help without expecting recognition or reward builds character and strengthens communities. Felix’s decision to clear snow at a bus stop shows how these values become automatic responses rather than calculated choices.
Many commenters on the original Facebook post wished more young people followed Felix’s example. Others noted that most children are naturally helpful when given opportunities and encouragement. The story sparked conversations about how communities can better recognize and encourage positive behavior in young people. Some suggested that schools and local organizations should highlight examples like Felix’s to inspire other children. The widespread positive response to Felix’s actions shows that Danish society values community spirit and mutual assistance, especially during difficult conditions like winter weather.
Sources and References
The Danish Dream: Is Denmark Cold
The Danish Dream: Health Insurance in Denmark for Foreigners
TV2: Mystisk dreng med sneskovl tog nettet med storm
TV2: Nyheder
