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

It started on Tumblr, where users embraced the soft plastic shark. The shark cost just 22 pounds and suddenly appeared everywhere in transgender spaces. Why? Nobody knows exactly how it began. But online, it became a kind of secret sign.

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

IKEA never intended the shark as a transgender symbol. That's what makes it beautiful. A company that didn't even know helped create something truly important for many people.

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

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