What started as a simple curiosity has become a source of wonder, connection, and generosity for a young boy in Surrey.
Ten-year-old Johnnie Burk has a deep fascination with elevators—how they sound, how they move, and how each one has its own identity. For Johnnie, riding an elevator isn’t just transportation; it’s an experience worth studying, documenting, and celebrating.
Johnnie, who is on the autism spectrum, began showing an intense interest in elevators several years ago. His father, Kory, quickly realized this wasn’t a fleeting hobby. Every button, light, and mechanical detail captured his son’s attention, and soon the two began spending weekends exploring elevators across the Lower Mainland.
Together, they turned these outings into what they call “adventures.” Johnnie carefully observes each ride, noting details such as speed, design, and manufacturer, while Kory supports and shares in his excitement.
The elevator rides didn’t stop there. Johnnie began recording each journey and uploading the videos to his YouTube channel, where he now has more than a thousand clips documenting elevators from bottom to top. Each video reflects his genuine enthusiasm—sometimes technical, sometimes humorous, always sincere.
Despite Johnnie’s passion, finding meaningful gifts related to elevators proved difficult for his family. Authentic parts and materials are not easily available, leaving his parents unsure how to fully support his interest.
Unbeknownst to them, members of the local elevator industry had discovered Johnnie’s videos. Touched by his enthusiasm, a few companies quietly came together to surprise him with elevator components and memorabilia—items that instantly lit up his world.
Today, Johnnie’s bedroom reflects that generosity. The space is filled with elevator signs, manuals, branded souvenirs, and even functioning elevator panels with real buttons and keys. Using a homemade “staff card,” he proudly enters what feels like his own personal control room.
Johnnie says he’s grateful for the kindness shown to him, while his father says the experience has reinforced something powerful: when a child is supported in what they love, it can inspire others in unexpected ways.
For Kory, watching his son follow his passion has been a reminder that joy doesn’t have to be complicated.
“When someone finds what truly excites them,” he says, “life feels fuller. And when that happens, every day carries a little bit of magic.”
