Lisett Padrón, a Cuban mother living in Houston, Texas, has made a heartfelt plea on social media for assistance to travel to Brazil and recover the body of her 18-year-old son, Yasniel Riera Padrón. His death in Brazil remains shrouded in mystery. In a video shared on Facebook shortly after the tragic event, she revealed that the exact cause of death is still unknown. "We still don't know if he took his own life or if someone else did," she said tearfully.
Expressing her financial constraints, Lisett urged those who can help to contact her directly at 713 748 5376 or 346 554 5757. She also confessed her unfamiliarity with the legal and logistical process of repatriating her son's remains. Yasniel, her firstborn, was a well-loved hairdresser, as shown in photos shared online.
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to aid Lisett in this challenging time. She wrote, "On July 22, 2025, we lost a beautiful soul who left us too soon." She described her son as charismatic and full of life, deeply cherished by everyone. The campaign aims to gather funds for cremation and transportation costs, as he passed away far from home. So far, over $2,000 of the $3,000 target has been raised.
Lisett concluded her message with a call for solidarity: "Every bit of help is appreciated. Please help me bring my son back to Cuba." The circumstances surrounding Yasniel's death are still under investigation by Brazilian authorities. Meanwhile, the Cuban community abroad is rallying to support Lisett during this heart-wrenching time.
The Shift in Cuban Migration Patterns: Brazil as a New Destination
While many Cubans continue to dream of reaching Miami, an increasing number have begun to look elsewhere. Faced with a tightened U.S. immigration policy under former President Donald Trump, Brazil has emerged as a new haven for those fleeing economic collapse and repression in Cuba.
In 2024, more than 22,000 Cubans sought asylum in Brazil, doubling the numbers from the previous year. This year, they have even surpassed Venezuelan asylum seekers, according to Bloomberg. Many arrive via Guyana, traverse the continent, and settle in the south of the country.
Curitiba, the capital of Paraná state, has witnessed a burgeoning Cuban community in recent years. Social media, YouTube channels, and groups like "Cubans in Curitiba" have played a crucial role in keeping the diaspora connected and organized. Despite challenges with legal status, language barriers, and even racism, many affirm that in Brazil, they can at least "live with dignity."
This evolving migration route, fueled by disillusionment with the U.S. and internal collapse in Cuba, has become one of the most active by 2025. Yasniel's story is a poignant reminder of the arduous journey many face.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cuban Migration to Brazil
Why are more Cubans choosing Brazil as a destination?
Many Cubans are turning to Brazil due to stricter U.S. immigration policies and the economic and political turmoil in Cuba. Brazil offers a new opportunity for those seeking asylum and a chance to start anew.
What challenges do Cubans face when settling in Brazil?
Cubans in Brazil often encounter difficulties with legal documentation, language barriers, and sometimes racism. Despite these challenges, many find that they can live with more dignity than they could in Cuba.
How is the Cuban community in Brazil supporting each other?
The Cuban community in Brazil stays connected through social media, YouTube channels, and support groups like "Cubans in Curitiba," which help them organize and support one another in their new environment.