A simple soft toy became a symbol for an entire community. IKEA's Blåhaj shark has been iconic in the transgender world since around 2017.

It started on Tumblr, where users embraced the soft plastic shark. The shark cost only 22 pounds and suddenly appeared everywhere in transgender circles. Why? Nobody knows exactly how it started, but online it became a secret sign.

For many transgender people, Blåhaj symbolises acceptance and safety. It is funny, innocent and very Dutch-Swedish. That is exactly why it works. It is not a political statement, just something lovely you love.

IKEA never intended the shark as a transgender symbol. That is precisely what makes it beautiful: a company that did not even know it was helping something truly important for many people.

Today you see Blåhaj everywhere in transgender online spaces. On forums, in profile pictures, on merchandise. The shark grew into a worldwide phenomenon. A small example of how internet creates culture in unexpected places.

The shark still costs just 22 pounds. But for many it is much more than that.