Young Man's Inspiring Efforts to Support His Grandmother Go Viral

A video shared on Instagram by Cuban stylist Dorian Carbonell, known as Donde Dorian, has gone viral, drawing thousands of reactions. It features a touching story of an 18-year-old who offers to take out trash from houses to financially support his family.

In the footage, the young man introduces himself casually: “Hey, it’s me, the trash guy.” He explains that he walks around the block offering to dispose of household waste so he doesn’t have to beg for money. This straightforward sentiment has deeply moved viewers of the video.

After opening the door and asking for permission to film, Dorian remarks: “This young man comes by every day to collect the neighborhood’s trash, without asking for money, and he’s really working hard. I admire that.”

The young man is identified as Mauri Pérez Izaguirre. Having completed a technical degree in Food Processing and finished 12th grade, he lives with his retired grandmother and ventures out daily to earn money to support their household. When asked how much he manages to collect, he replies: “1,200, 1,400, 2,000 pesos, depending, up to 2,500.”

The Economic Struggle in Cuba

In Cuba’s current economic climate, where many families rely on meager pensions and low state salaries, Mauri’s earnings can provide significant relief in a household dependent solely on a pension. However, what stood out the most to social media users was not the amount he earned, but his choice to work rather than beg.

Several commenters recognized Mauri’s politeness and dedication: “He’s here every night collecting trash, very polite and respectful, always concerned about his grandmother’s well-being. Good things will come his way because he deserves it,” wrote one user. Another mentioned: “He comes by my house daily, and we encourage him to keep fighting hard and honestly.”

A Role Model for Youth

Comments poured in, praising his integrity: “Forgive me, God, for complaining,” said one. “There are still honest, hardworking, and selfless young people,” commented another. Messages of encouragement included: “A good man doesn’t seek pity, he seeks work, has faith and willpower” and “These are the kids who break your heart as they fight for their families, they don’t steal or rob, blessings to him.”

Many called for support and opportunities for Mauri to advance. Questions like “How can we help this young man?” and “Please put me in touch with him, brother” were common among the over a thousand comments that the post garnered.

Dorian Carbonell is well-known in Cuba for his work in men’s hairstyling and grooming, serving notable figures in the arts like El Micha and Divan. He’s been dedicated to a salon exclusively for men, offering personalized image design, including dyes, hair treatments, and cuts.

In this instance, beyond the realm of style and grooming, his post highlighted a common reality: young people who, despite hardships, strive to support their families with dignity. Among the comments, one sentiment echoed strongly: “Work ennobles.”