Kirk-Mensah, also known as Magic Mike, has been working as a traffic controller at a construction site in The Hague for the past year. Within this year he has become a well-known but especially a well-liked person within the International City of Peace and Justice.
Before this project he used to work in Amsterdam and relocated to The Hague where he continued to create little moments of peace and happiness in everyday life. A beautiful example of how one simple decision can make a significant impact.
"Hello!"
One day, Magic Mike read an article about the importance of mental health and understood that a simple “hello” could help brighten someone's day. In the beginning, people had serious or sad expressions, but it changed when Magic Mike decided to interact with them. He greets everyone that passes by, sometimes he gives them a high five, and always smiles at everyone because maybe someone might need it. His colleagues attributed the name Magic Mike to him because they believe he magically puts a smile on people's faces.
For everybody who is curious where his happy vibes come from. Kirk-Mensah is originally from Ghana, and moved to Almere where he is married and a proud father of two.
“I noticed that greetings are priceless, it costs nothing, it is part of our daily life, but you don’t always see the importance of it”.
How a smile can make a big difference
Every day, commuters take this route to get to work or school; it has become a habit for many to greet him on the way, and some passers-by have taken the time to have a conversation with him. Magic Mike has become a familiar face to many in this city. Magic Mike often receives support in return, some have addressed letters to him and others have thanked him as he spreads a positive attitude.
“I got a lot of people saying that they had a good day, and I received personal letters. I enjoy seeing people smile, when I see people smile, I feel good!”
The importance of showing up for others is highlighted and he is happy to see that his contribution to society is visible through his actions. As the winter holidays approach, Magic Mike has a message for everyone:
“Just smile and have a good day”.
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