A Cuban man living in England has captured the attention of social media users by sharing the details of his life as a truck driver in a foreign land with charm and authenticity. His personal story, narrated in first person with a unique flair, highlights the long and arduous journey many migrants face when seeking to rebuild their lives far from Cuba.
In a recent video shared on his Instagram account, @hgv_cuban.uk, he revealed that he was born in Sancti Spíritus and was a gymnast until the age of 12. At 18, he enrolled in the circus school in Havana, where he trained as an acrobat. "After graduating from circus school at 21, I secured a job contract in Turkey, where I spent six months working in hotels," he recounted.
He later moved to England for the first time, though his initial stay was short-lived. "About three months before I was supposed to return to Cuba, I met my wife. I went back to Cuba and then to Turkey again," he explained. During this second stint in Turkey, he managed to save enough money to obtain a fiancé visa and returned to the UK with plans to marry.
Once settled in England, he spent six months unable to work until he found his first job at a recycling plant, sorting materials like wood and plastic on a conveyor belt. He then worked as a delivery assistant in a store, which sparked an idea—why not become a driver himself? With determination, he saved £3,500 to obtain his truck driving license.
This investment opened new career opportunities, and today he not only works as a truck driver but has also become a content creator, sharing his daily life on the roads of the United Kingdom. His story is a testament to the myriad paths Cuban exiles take, where perseverance and personal reinvention are essential for starting anew.
In a previous post dedicated to fellow Cuban truck drivers residing in Miami, he explained why, despite earning £1,800 a month, he leads a fulfilling life without the luxuries or excesses often associated with the American dream.
Insights on Migration and Resilience
What challenges do migrants face when starting over in a new country?
Migrants often encounter challenges such as cultural adaptation, language barriers, and finding employment. They must navigate these obstacles while trying to establish a new life in unfamiliar surroundings.
How did the Cuban truck driver manage to return to the UK?
He saved enough money while working in Turkey to obtain a fiancé visa, allowing him to return to the UK with the intention of getting married.
What steps did he take to become a truck driver in England?
After working various jobs, he decided to save £3,500 to obtain his truck driving license, which enabled him to pursue a career as a truck driver.