Shaun Alexander, a 38-year-old YouTuber from Edinburgh, is raising money to secure a US visa after his World Cup vlogs resonated with American viewers who encouraged him to stay in the country. Known online as Shaunvlog, Alexander travelled to the United States alongside thousands of Scotland fans to watch the national team compete in their first major global tournament in 28 years.
Viral Success and New Fans
Alexander, who has nearly 200,000 YouTube subscribers, gained a legion of new US fans by posting clips as 'a Scottish guy in America' from locations including Boston, Miami, and Philadelphia. His content, which features food reviews and travel adventures, struck a chord with viewers who urged him to remain in the US and explore more of the country.
Visa Challenge and Fundraising
Having fallen in love with America, Alexander now wants to move there permanently. However, he requires an O-1 visa, a US route for individuals judged to have 'extraordinary ability.' The visa process involves paying a lawyer approximately $10,000, plus additional costs for travel and establishing a new life. To cover these expenses, he launched a GoFundMe campaign, which has already raised over £3,000.
Writing on GoFundMe, Alexander said: 'Hey, I’m Shaun. I’m a guy from Scotland came to America for the World Cup, and started sharing my journey on social media. My posts resonated with many Americans who suggest that I should stay and see more of the country, and I have fallen in love with the place. I really want to return, but I need a permanent visa (O-1). To get that, I’ll need to pay a lawyer around $10k, and will then need to pay to travel and set up a new life in America. I’m all in on this mission, and would hugely appreciate if you could help me along the way. Thank you so much for your consideration.'
Adventures and Community Support
During his time in the US, Alexander also ran a marathon for a Boston cancer charity. Supporters have already offered to show him around upon his return. His videos document a wide range of experiences, from reviewing lobster rolls in Massachusetts and sampling cheesesteaks in Philadelphia to trying out waffle houses in rural Florida. He also documented alligator-spotting on a wildlife drive at Lake Apopka, Florida's fourth-largest lake, and touring the streets of New York in a kilt.
Context: Scotland's World Cup Exit
Alexander's fundraising comes after Steve Clarke was seen for the first time since resigning as Scotland manager. Clarke was pictured leaving the Grand Bohemian hotel in North Carolina following the team's World Cup exit and hours after his resignation. The 62-year-old waved to fans and photographers as he bundled into a taxi headed for the airport. He announced his departure after Croatia's win over Ghana sealed Scotland's fate.
