A Cuban woman from Morón, Ciego de Ávila, has touched the hearts of thousands on TikTok with her remarkable life story. The video, shared by @510FamosoTV, captures a candid conversation in a supermarket parking lot in the United States, where she recounts her journey from arriving with nothing to finding stability in under two years. "We arrived with not a penny to our name because even our tickets were paid for," she admitted during the interview.
After leaving Cuba in 2020, she spent nearly three and a half years in Nicaragua, facing hardships and political challenges. "I left with the conviction that I would never return because I was dissatisfied with the system and the lack of resources in my country," she declared. With a university degree, she worked at a bookstore for 26 years earning a meager 368 pesos. Now, at over 55 years old, she is grateful for opportunities in the U.S. that she could never have imagined on the island. "This is a land of many opportunities, but you must work hard and obey the laws," she advises newcomers.
One of the most poignant moments was when she spoke about her faith: "I come from a country where our faith was suppressed. Since the revolution, there was a separation between religion and the political system. I found my faith when I emigrated." She now states that economic stability has allowed her to grow personally and find inner peace.
The video has sparked a wave of reactions. A user named Mari, identifying herself as her daughter, commented: "This is my mom. Not only is she very educated and intelligent, but she is also the most resilient, compassionate, and enthusiastic woman I know. You are my light." Other comments praised her education, clarity, and humility: "That's the way to speak, ma'am. You represent me," "She reminded me of my mother, who came at 60 and also succeeded," and "You embody the true spirit of the fighting Cuban."
This testimony adds to similar stories shared by @510FamosoTV, which has interviewed various Cubans in the U.S. about their migration experiences and adaptation. In previous posts, many have advised newcomers to work hard and focus on personal growth. An earlier account featured a woman from Cerro, Havana, who arrived in the U.S. penniless and now celebrates her stability, stating, "I arrived with no money, and today I have stability."
The journey of this woman from Ciego de Ávila highlights the challenges of Cuban migration, yet also underscores the potential to build a new life through hard work, faith, and determination.
Key Insights into Cuban Migration and Success Stories
What challenges did the Cuban woman face in her journey?
She faced economic hardships and political challenges during her nearly three and a half years in Nicaragua before reaching the United States.
How did she describe the opportunities in the United States?
She described the United States as a land of many opportunities, emphasizing the importance of hard work and following the law to succeed.
What role did faith play in her life post-migration?
She found her faith anew after emigrating, which contributed to her personal growth and inner peace.
What advice does she offer to new immigrants?
She advises newcomers to work diligently and adhere to the laws of the country to achieve success.