Mayulis, a Cuban migrant now residing in Murcia, Spain, has successfully transitioned into a new career as a school bus driver, despite originally being trained as an electrical engineer in Cuba. A compelling report from Spain's Cadena SER highlights her journey of perseverance and determination to create a better life abroad.
Leaving Cuba two years ago with the hope of securing a brighter future for her daughter, Mayulis faced the challenge of her engineering degree not being recognized in Spain. Nonetheless, she was determined to succeed. Through a project facilitated by Cáritas and the Regional Federation of Organizations and Transport Companies of Murcia (Froet), she obtained a driver's license and embarked on a new chapter in her life as a bus driver.
Reflecting on her decision, Mayulis shared with the Spanish media, "When I heard about the project, I thought, 'wow,' because I admired the courage of female drivers and I love challenges."
Since March, she has been driving a school bus for Orbitalia travel agency in the municipality of Lorca. Initially taking on various jobs to support herself, she now feels fulfilled in her new profession. After working in restaurants and taking English courses, she decided to pursue her passion for driving. "You need to pass the D license, three exams, and the Professional Aptitude Certificate (CAP). It's a lot of material, but I really enjoy studying," she stated.
The 'Drive Your Future' project aims to provide employment to individuals in vulnerable situations while addressing the shortage of bus drivers. FROET partner companies offer weekly classes for certification, covering topics like occupational risk prevention and business culture.
According to Spain’s National Institute of Statistics (INE), the number of Cubans arriving in Spain between 2023 and 2024 has reached 53,100. In 2023 alone, 28,900 Cuban citizens entered Spain, and by the first three quarters of 2024, the number was 24,200. The migration trend of Cubans to Spain has been on the rise in recent years, driven by economic hardships on the Island, the pursuit of better living conditions, and the opportunity provided by the Democratic Memory Law, also known as the "Grandchildren's Law," which has enabled many Cubans with Spanish ancestry to obtain Spanish citizenship.
Spanish immigration authorities have noted the continuous growth of the Cuban community in the country, with many settling in major cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia, where they find support through family and community networks.
Understanding the Cuban Migration to Spain
Why are so many Cubans migrating to Spain?
Cubans are increasingly migrating to Spain due to the economic crisis in Cuba, in search of better living conditions, and the opportunity to obtain Spanish citizenship through the "Grandchildren's Law."
What is the 'Drive Your Future' project?
The 'Drive Your Future' project is an initiative that provides employment opportunities to vulnerable individuals by offering training and certification as bus drivers, helping to fill a critical shortage in the industry.
How does the 'Grandchildren's Law' facilitate Cuban migration to Spain?
The 'Grandchildren's Law' allows Cubans with Spanish ancestry to obtain Spanish nationality, making it easier for them to migrate and settle in Spain.