Lisset Catalina, a Cuban content creator on TikTok known as @lorenzolisset, recently shared her heartfelt story about why she chose to move her family to Uruguay over any other country. Her narrative has sparked hundreds of comments on the social platform. "As promised, I'm going to tell you why we decided to come to Uruguay instead of another country," she began.
Lisset revealed that she had dreamed of leaving Cuba since she was 16. She recounted her husband’s unsuccessful attempts to relocate the family to Sweden and later to the United States. "In August 2018, our son sent us $40 through Western Union... that was the spark," she recounted. A young man on a motorcycle, also embarking on a journey, parked in front of their house, marking the beginning of their path to Uruguay.
Seizing the opportunity, Lisset urged her family to act quickly. "I told him, 'This is the moment for us three—our daughter, you, and me—to leave. If we don't go now, we never will.'" They sold their belongings and received assistance to purchase tickets to Guyana. "I was ecstatic knowing that at 38, I was finally leaving Cuba. It was beyond words," she admitted.
In a follow-up video posted recently, Lisset explained why they chose Uruguay: "We turned to Wikipedia because, to be honest, I didn't even know Uruguay existed." After researching, they were drawn to the country's free healthcare and education, safety, and political stability. "With a nine-year-old daughter, we had to find a place that was safe and peaceful. Uruguay was the answer," she stated confidently.
Her story has been met with a wave of positive reactions, particularly from Uruguayans who welcomed her warmly. "Welcome to our beautiful Uruguay. God bless you," one user commented. Another added, "Uruguay is a country where you can feel freedom and find opportunities." Messages of encouragement and support flowed in, with some sharing their own experiences as newcomers. "Every beginning is tough. I've been here a short time and haven't found a job yet, but I know things will get better," one follower shared.
This isn't Lisset's first viral video about her life in Uruguay. In previous posts, she expressed gratitude for overcoming numerous challenges and thriving in the country. "I love my Cuba and hope it returns to what it once was. Meanwhile, Uruguay is my home, and I plan to stay," she declared.
Insights into Lisset Catalina's Journey to Uruguay
What motivated Lisset Catalina to move to Uruguay?
Lisset Catalina was motivated to move to Uruguay due to its free healthcare and education, safety, and political stability, which were crucial for her family's future.
How did Lisset Catalina's family manage to leave Cuba?
Her family managed to leave Cuba by selling their belongings and receiving financial help for tickets to Guyana, marking the start of their journey to Uruguay.
How do Uruguayans feel about Lisset Catalina's story?
Uruguayans have largely reacted positively, offering warm welcomes and expressing pride in their country's opportunities and freedoms.