Cuban influencer Kevin Hernández has once again found himself at the center of a social media storm after posting a controversial reel on Instagram. In it, he expressed feelings of "rejection," "hatred," and "disgust" towards anything associated with poverty, advising his followers to adopt a similar stance as a means of personal growth.
The video, filmed in what Hernández described as "the best neighborhood in my city" in Curitiba, Brazil, where he has lived since fleeing Cuba in May 2025, opens with a statement that quickly polarized opinions: "I feel a strong rejection of poor things, poor food, poor places, poor environments, poor mindsets—anything to do with poverty, I feel a massive rejection, a hatred."
At 21, Kevin attempted to soften his message by clarifying that feeling this way "doesn't mean you should mistreat others," but rather use it as motivation to strive for a better life.
However, the way he illustrated his point sparked even more debate. He cited Gucci bags costing between 25,000 and 30,000 reais and Dior makeup from Sephora as examples of what people aspire to own, confessing that he dreads "having to give up the life I have to work in a supermarket stocking shelves for 2,000, 3,000 reais."
The most striking statement for his followers was one blending pride with detachment from his origins: "Precisely because I know where I came from, I know where I don't want to return."
Comments ranged from accusations of arrogance to support for his underlying message. One user harshly responded: "Kid, you have a lot of growing up to do. No amount of money will erase the fact you were born into poverty." Another was even more blunt: "That arrogance will be your worst enemy. That's all I have to say."
Some questioned his value system: "Is your definition of wealth Gucci, Dior, and Sephora? Kevin, you have much to learn!"
A 74-year-old follower reminded him of his audience's roots: "Always remember that those of us who follow you aren't millionaires; we're working people or, like me, living on retirement. We've helped you get out, especially from Cuba."
Others defended him, suggesting the video is just content: "People don't understand it's content. Everyone likes nice things." Kevin himself replied in the comments, asserting that he has never mistreated anyone and that those who know him consider him "a loving person."
This isn't the first time the digital creator, who emigrated from Cuba with fellow YouTuber and former partner Dariel Vázquez, funding the journey through content revenue and follower support, has sparked such controversy. In May 2026, he was accused of xenophobia over comments about housing in Brazil.
The uproar comes amid a massive exodus, with over 33,000 Cubans seeking asylum in Brazil during the first nine months of 2026. Many document a seemingly prosperous life on social media, which doesn't always reflect the true challenges of migration.
Common Questions About Kevin Hernández's Controversial Statements
What did Kevin Hernández say about poverty?
Kevin Hernández expressed feelings of rejection, hatred, and disgust towards anything related to poverty, suggesting his followers adopt the same attitude as a motivator for personal improvement.
Why did Kevin Hernández's video spark controversy?
The controversy arose from Kevin's harsh remarks about poverty and his references to luxury brands as symbols of success, which many viewed as arrogant and disconnected from his roots.
How did Kevin Hernández respond to the backlash?
Kevin clarified that his feelings of rejection towards poverty are meant to inspire striving for a better life, not to justify mistreating others. He also stated that those who know him describe him as a kind person.
What previous controversies has Kevin Hernández been involved in?
In May 2026, Kevin Hernández was accused of xenophobia due to comments he made about housing in Brazil, adding to his history of contentious statements.