Cuban who emigrated to the United States at 14: "I have never forgotten where I come from"

Despite having lived most of her life in the United States, the young Cuban Elaine Hampson not only has not forgotten her roots but also takes pride in them.

On her TikTok account @hampsonfamily, the young woman shared her first video in Spanish on the platform at the end of last July to express the deep pride she feels for her Latin roots, despite having left Cuba 15 years ago when she moved to the United States at the age of 14.

"I have been asked many times if I get tired of saying that I am Latina, and no, I do not get tired of saying that I am Latina," Elaine stated with conviction, sitting in her car while speaking directly to the camera.

Although she has lived much of her life in the United States and is married to an American, Elaine assures that she has never forgotten where she comes from. “I live in this country, but I have never forgotten where I come from. I was born in a small town in Cuba called Pinar del Río…,” she explained. She even took the opportunity to humorously debunk stereotypes about her homeland: “There are many stories that say that people from Pinar del Río are very stupid, but I disagree with that because I am from Pinar del Río and I am not stupid.”

Her message has resonated strongly among her followers, many of whom are also Latino, who identify with her immigration story and pride in her origin. "Proud to be from Pinar, blessings," expressed one follower. Another user commented: "I love that you are proud to be Latina, me too, beautiful."

In addition, she received praise for her authenticity and connection with her community. “You are beautiful and never lose your roots”; “What joy when I hear that someone is from Pinar del Río”; “You are so lovely, keep defending and representing your origin”; “How beautiful it is to not deny your roots and feel proud. Blessings,” others commented.

Elaine ended her video by inviting her followers to ask her more questions about her life, expressing her willingness to continue sharing her experience as an immigrant and mother in the United States. Her story is a reminder of the pride that many Cubans feel for their origins, regardless of how long they have lived outside their homeland.