The young Cuban Leandro Hernández, known on social media as @leo.a.secas8, celebrated his first three months in Peru on March 4, a country where he sought refuge after being stranded at the Lima airport and unable to continue his journey to Nicaragua.
In a video posted on TikTok, Hernández shared his feelings about this period of adjustment. “Today is March 4. It has officially been three months since the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Peru granted me entry into the country. Three months that have flown by, during which I’ve met wonderful people, three months of uncertainty, ups and downs, adapting to a culture completely different from my own, learning about the real world, because, of course, my friend, I was taken out of Narnia. And three months that I feel are just the beginning of something much bigger,” he said in a video shared a few hours ago
The post has generated a wave of positive reactions among his followers, who sent him messages of support and welcomed him to the South American country.
"Congratulations on your struggle, on your effort, and, most importantly, on the attitude with which you approach life", commented a user.
Other Cubans who have been in Peru longer offered advice and encouraged him to move forward: "I am Cuban and I have been here for 20 years. Welcome to this beautiful country."
Moreover, several Peruvians reminded him of the cultural diversity of their nation and recommended exploring different regions: "Peru is very large and each city has its own food, landscapes, culture, and carnivals. If you save up, you can visit Cusco, Arequipa, Trujillo, Puno, Cajamarca, Iquitos", suggested a user.
Leandro Hernández arrived in Peru in December 2024 after a complicated migration process. He originally planned to travel to Nicaragua, but the authorities in that country denied him entry, allegedly due to pressure from the Cuban regime because of his political activism. At that time, his situation left him stranded at Lima's Jorge Chávez Airport, where he spent several days sleeping in the Duty Free area, unable to continue his journey or return to Cuba due to the political reprisals he would face.
Finally, he requested asylum in Peru, and the authorities allowed him to stay. In February, the young man celebrated another small achievement: getting his first bed and table after several weeks of sleeping on the floor. His story has touched thousands of people on social media, where he shares his process of adaptation and growth in his new life.
Three months after receiving refuge, Hernández is optimistic and determined to continue moving forward on his path. His story reflects the struggle of many Cuban migrants seeking a better future outside the island, facing challenges but also finding solidarity in other lands.
Frequently Asked Questions about Leandro Hernández's Experience in Peru
Why did Leandro Hernández decide to stay in Peru?
Leandro Hernández decided to stay in Peru because he received political asylum after being rejected by Nicaragua due to pressure from the Cuban regime for his political activism. Unable to return to Cuba without facing reprisals, Peru became his option to start a new life.
How has Leandro Hernández's adaptation been in Peru?
The adaptation of Leandro Hernández in Peru has been a journey of highs and lows, filled with uncertainties and lessons about a different culture. In his first three months, he managed to settle in, meet wonderful people, and celebrate small achievements, such as getting his first bed and table, which he has shared with optimism on social media.
What challenges did Leandro Hernández face upon arriving in Peru?
Upon arriving in Peru, Leandro Hernández faced the challenge of being stranded at Lima airport, unable to continue his journey to Nicaragua or return to Cuba. He spent several days in the Duty Free at the airport until he was able to apply for political asylum, a situation that tested his resilience and determination to start anew in a foreign country.
What reactions has Leandro Hernández's story generated on social media?
The story of Leandro Hernández has generated positive reactions on social media, where many followers have expressed support and admiration for his struggle and perseverance. Other Cuban and Peruvian migrants have offered him advice and encouragement, highlighting the solidarity and empathy that his situation has evoked among users from different nationalities.
Filed under:
