Australia’s Bondi Beach hero Ahmed al Ahmed has received more than A$2.5 million, around $1.65 million, raised through public donations after he bravely disarmed a gunman during a deadly attack.
During the incident, Ahmed hid behind parked cars before charging one attacker from behind, grabbing his weapon and knocking him down despite being shot by a second gunman moments later.
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As a result of his injuries, Ahmed remains hospitalized after surgery, where he was presented with an oversized cheque by a social media influencer who helped organize the global fundraising campaign.
More than 43,000 people worldwide donated to the cause, including prominent figures, while national leaders visited Ahmed in hospital to personally praise his courage and selfless actions.
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While accepting the cheque, Ahmed humbly questioned whether he deserved it and urged people to stand together as human beings, saying he acted from the heart to protect families enjoying a peaceful day.
The 43-year-old father of two, who migrated from Syria nearly two decades ago, became a symbol of unity and bravery after the attack that killed 15 people and injured dozens.