Armed with just $500 and a heartfelt promise, Cuban native Juan Hernández embarked on a life-changing journey in 2022, leading him to the United States where he now proudly owns his own business.
In an interview with Univisión, Juan recounted how he left Cuba on April 22, 2022, driven by the hope for a brighter future and a pledge to the virgin saints whom he believes guided him every step of the way.
"I was chasing a better dream for myself and my family. They've always supported me and stayed engaged with my projects to ensure a better future for them," the now-successful entrepreneur reflected.
The Journey from Cuba to Entrepreneurship
Juan shared that he transitioned from being a veterinarian in Cuba to owning a welding business in the United States in a remarkably short period.
"Leaving Cuba with so little makes everything you earn abroad feel twice as valuable: it embodies both sacrifice and freedom," he explained.
Upon reaching the Texas border, Juan faced the daunting task of starting from scratch without contacts, resources, or fluent English skills. Initially, he took on temporary jobs until he mastered welding.
Building "Las 3 Cuban Virgins"
With persistence and faith, he gradually established a small workshop in San Antonio, naming it "Las 3 Cuban Virgins."
"Before leaving my home country, I prayed earnestly to the three virgin saints and the Virgin of Guadalupe to safely bring me to the United States. I promised that if I succeeded, I would name my business after them," Juan shared.
Today, Juan Hernández’s family-run workshop stands as a testament to hard work and determination within the Hispanic community, especially during times of uncertainty for countless immigrants feeling marginalized in the country.
A Message of Hope and Perseverance
Juan’s wife, Carmen Hurtado, of Mexican descent, stands by his side in this new chapter, affirming that the Virgin of Guadalupe has been their spiritual guide.
The couple has visited the Basilica of Guadalupe in Mexico to express gratitude for their blessings. From there, they sent a heartfelt message to those who, like them, left their homeland in search of a better life:
"Never stop fighting. Hold on to faith, work with discipline and consistency. Dreams do come true," Juan declared, moved as he recalled his arrival with merely $500.
Today, "Las 3 Cuban Virgins" is not only a thriving business but also a beacon of faith, sacrifice, and hope for numerous immigrants striving to make their mark in the United States.
Stories like Juan Hernández’s highlight the plight of thousands of Cubans who, facing a lack of opportunities on the island, have chosen to emigrate. Yet, rather than succumbing to adversity, many have found success through diligence, hard work, and unwavering faith.
Insight into Juan Hernández's Success Story
What motivated Juan Hernández to leave Cuba?
Juan Hernández was driven by the desire for a better future for himself and his family, as well as a promise to the virgin saints who he believed guided him.
How did the business name "Las 3 Cuban Virgins" come about?
The name "Las 3 Cuban Virgins" was inspired by a promise Juan made to the three virgin saints and the Virgin of Guadalupe to name his business after them if he successfully reached the United States.
What challenges did Juan face upon arriving in Texas?
Upon arriving in Texas, Juan had no contacts, resources, or fluent English skills, which forced him to start from scratch and take on temporary jobs until he learned welding.