The Cuban entrepreneur Yandry Roque Pando, owner of the popular bakery Ena’s Secret Bake in Florida, marked a significant milestone in his life this Tuesday: casting his first vote in the United States. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to the country for welcoming him and providing opportunities for advancement.
In a Facebook post, Roque, who is associated with Tampa, shared his excitement about participating in the November 3rd elections. He offered words of thanks to the United States, immigrants, and those who have come to the country seeking a brighter future.
"First of all, I thank God for allowing me to experience such a special moment," he began his message.
Roque emphasized that voting held profound significance for him, beyond merely showing up at the polls. "Today, I exercise my right to vote for the first time in this great nation that has opened its doors to me and offered countless opportunities. I do this with a heart full of gratitude, for the good of this nation and for democracy," he expressed.
The entrepreneur extended his gratitude to the immigrant community, with whom he shares the experience of leaving his homeland and starting anew in the United States.
"May God bless America, all Latinos, all immigrants, and everyone who, like me, arrived on this land with dreams and the desire to work, fight, and move forward with dignity," he declared.
His post concluded with another expression of satisfaction for exercising this right: "Today, I vote with faith, hope, and love for this land. All the glory to God!"
Roque did not mention which candidates he supported or express any partisan preference. His message focused on the opportunity to vote, his gratitude, and the value he places on his immigrant experience.
In Florida, Roque is well-known for Ena’s Secret Bake, a family-run pastry business with locations in Hialeah and Tampa. Together with his grandparents, he has worked to offer traditional Cuban sweets, including the popular birthday cake boxes.
His entrepreneurial journey has caught attention due to the involvement of his grandparents, whom he brought from Cuba, helping keep alive a piece of the island’s culinary traditions.
Roque has also been involved in community initiatives. In August 2024, he distributed free cakes on a street in Hialeah, an event he shared on social media.
Later, in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, he provided free meals from his Tampa business to those affected by the storm, stating that helping people in need was more important than charging for the food.
Roque Pando's inaugural vote comes amidst an election day where other Cuban immigrants have also shared their experiences, expectations, and motivations for participating.
Among these stories is that of Lya Noriega, a 21-year-old Cuban who arrived in Miami at the age of three and was preparing to vote for the first time in Tuesday's elections. Noriega noted that, despite having different political views from her family, participating in the elections is a way to acknowledge the sacrifices her parents made by emigrating from Cuba.
Another Cuban, Joel Díaz, recently shared his reasons for voting and defended immigrants who have come to the United States via various paths.
First-Time Voting Experience for Cuban Immigrants
Why is Yandry Roque Pando's first vote significant?
Roque Pando's first vote is significant because it represents the opportunities and freedoms he has found in the United States as an immigrant, as well as his gratitude for being able to participate in the democratic process.
What is Ena's Secret Bake known for?
Ena's Secret Bake is known for offering traditional Cuban pastries in Florida, with locations in Hialeah and Tampa. The business is a family affair involving Roque's grandparents.
How has Yandry Roque Pando contributed to the community?
Roque has contributed to the community by organizing events like free cake distribution and providing meals to those affected by Hurricane Milton, emphasizing support for those in need.