The chairman of KNQK, Mikkel Jeremiassen, contacted Mathias Petersen on Tuesday.
He had just received notification that employees and equipment from KNR, who were supposed to cover Avannaata Qimussersua, could not reach Qasigiannguit due to the parliamentary election.
At the same time, it was clear that the broadcast could still be carried out – but only if 70,000 kroner were quickly raised.
Raising such a large amount in a short time is a difficult task for most people.
This is where the idea of TikToker Mathias Petersen came to mind, who has previously been behind collections for people in need. And when he was contacted, he responded immediately.
– He called on Tuesday afternoon. When he explained the situation, I immediately got started. I went live and immediately explained the purpose to the viewers, says Mathias Petersen.
There is great support
In addition to collecting via live on TikTok, Mathias Petersen also contacted companies to find sponsors – with help from others. The support from both private individuals and the business community was clear.
The collection was launched on Tuesday, and already on Thursday it was clear that 76,558 kroner had been collected – more than the necessary 70,000 kroner.
In a TikTok video, Mathias Petersen is seen crying with joy when he realizes that the goal has been reached.
– It means a lot to me, and I feel a responsibility to help because I am part of those who value Greenlandic culture, he says.
Will broadcast live on his own
Mathias Petersen and his TikTok friends have previously been behind several fundraisers. According to him, they have collected around 600,000 kroner in total. Previously, the money has gone to individuals in urgent need of help – including seriously ill people, fire victims and people who have lost close relatives.
Why do you want to help?
– I don't really know how to phrase it. I just see it as a responsibility and a duty. I act to help those in society who need it, he says.
This time, the money will be used to broadcast Avannaata Qimussersua on March 28. Independent photographer Anders Berthelsen will be in charge of the transmission from Qasigiannguit.
The chairman of KNQK, Mikkel Jeremiassen, is grateful for the initiative, which now makes it possible to broadcast the race.
– I am very happy. It is also a relief. It is fantastic that it has succeeded, he says.
KNR: - We help where we can
There are parliamentary elections on Tuesday, March 24, and Avannaata Qimussersuaaraa will be held the very next day, Wednesday, March 25. Avannaata Qimussersua will be run on Saturday, March 28.
The tight schedule means that KNR’s staff and equipment will only reach Qasigiannguit late for Avannaata Qimussersua. He also emphasizes that coverage of the general election has had the highest priority.
Avannaata Qimussersua will be broadcast live on TV via KNR’s transmitter. KNR will also share experiences and updates on the preparations with those responsible for the broadcast.
- We help where we can, says Mathias Davidsen.
KNR, which was not able to cover the race in full itself, appreciates the agreement between KNQK and those who will broadcast the race live, as well as the support that the collection has shown.
- It is very beautiful, and it shows that there are many people interested in Avannaata Qimussersua, says Mathias Davidsen.
Mathias Petersen, who has secured the broadcast, can now look forward to the race along with everyone else who follows.
– It has always been important to me, and I always look forward to that day, says Mathias Petersen.
