Kinan Humaira: A Fourth Grader with Billion-Dollar Dreams and a Heart Full of Love

Fourth grade — the moment kids are big enough to understand the difference between ‘you’re’ and ‘your,’ but not quite big enough to wish for world peace over a tub of ice cream, if given the chance. In entering the Grade 4C classroom, Kinan Humaira immediately caught my attention. And no, it wasn’t the pink glasses or her voice that could make a deaf man hear, but rather the sheer reluctance she had to do this interview with me, once called by her teacher, Ms. Tere. Another thing I noticed, without a doubt, was that Kinan wanted her friend to accompany her during the interview (courtesy of her pulling and begging her friend to come with her). From this, I concluded as to why Kinan was the perfect interviewee — she was a little girl who knew what she wanted and would do whatever it took to get it, even if it meant dragging her friend relentlessly.

I asked her — If a genie came up to you and offered you three wishes, what would you wish for?

As an older student, I can say many upperclassmen would respond with something along the lines of good grades, but not this fourth grader. “One billion dollars, unlimited Robux (pitched to her by her tag-along friend), and unlimited ice cream” were her three wishes. Kinan’s big dreams are almost stunning, in the best way possible. From the way she uses American currency, and desires no limit for her possessions, even greed would be afraid of her.

Which wish do you think is the most important?

Her answer had to be “one billion dollars.” When asked why that seemed like her number one priority, her answer defied those of the fairytales you’d think these children fawned over. She’s sensible and has a clear grasp of how the world works — “It’s money, and I can use it for anything,” which isn't wrong at all.

What is more important, money or love?

“Love!” The answer was simple but sweet. When answering, she looked at me as if the answer was obvious. With her brows furrowed, she said ‘love’ as if it were the only answer. Right at that moment, she was holding her friend by the arm, not wishing for her to go; a live representation of her choice regarding sentimental or materialistic value. I knew, without asking, that she would choose her friend over money, as well.

Why do you think love is more important?

Kinan made the genuine response of “It’s not just about money,” which, funnily enough, greatly contrasted her initial wish of a billion dollars… but then again, she’s at the age where values are easily swayed, and it’s up to those she trusts, such as adults or teachers, to educate her on what is right. The interview wouldn’t have ended right without the wit that’s practically intertwined with every fourth grader’s soul. So, as if to elaborate, she continued briefly. “Because if we love and care about each other, they might just give us money.” A statement that starts tenderly, yet ends with humour; it perfectly encapsulates Kinan Humaira’s character.

Meeting Kinan changed my perspective. Many can agree that there is a part of growing up that often makes you forget what it was like to be a child, but through Kinan, I had a moment of familiarity with that long-lost feeling. As it turns out, being a child means having wild, imaginative dreams. Being a child means having endless potential. With the right care, attention, and role models, being a child means choosing love. No one truly loses that smaller version of themselves. They shine through in certain moments, like, for instance, joking with a friend, or sharing a snack with a loved one, or simply viewing the world with a bold perspective without any doubts, such as Kinan’s wish to have a billion dollars, without considering the tax.