Christian, a 14-year-old boy from Bayamo, Granma, has found in barbering not only a trade but also a way to earn a living and support his family.
Since he was 12 years old, he has worked as a barber in a small makeshift booth in his neighborhood, where he offers haircuts and shaves at very affordable prices.
Despite his limited resources, Christian demonstrates an unwavering effort to move forward amid the challenging economic situation in Cuba.
Christian's case came to light through social media, where Eliecer Almenares (@elieceralmenares) shared an emotional video highlighting his daily struggle.
He lives with his grandfather, his aunt, and a seven-year-old younger sister, who largely depend on the income he provides.
In addition to his work as a barber, Christian sells charcoal and cassava to increase his income and support his family.
Their reality, characterized by shortages, includes a lack of basic tools for their trade and frequent interruptions in the power supply, which directly impacts their ability to work.
Almenares highlighted Christian's humility and dedication, showcasing his small shop, which lacked essential items such as hair clippers, scissors, combs, and barbering products.
"This child is showing the world that with effort, one can overcome challenges. While many waste their time, he works to support his family," he commented.
The post includes a call for solidarity, inviting barbers and interested individuals from around the world, especially from Miami, to donate tools and products that could improve Christian's working conditions.
Support is not limited to donations alone. He also urged the residents of Bayamo to visit his office, located at Calle 22, corner of 26 de Julio in the Ciro Redondo neighborhood, and hire his services as a direct way to support him.
Christian mentioned that he began cutting hair at the age of 12 and has already built a regular client base, including seniors from his community.
For their services, they charge 200 pesos per haircut and 80 pesos for shaving, prices that are extremely low compared to the current market.
Christian's story not only reflects the challenges faced by many children and adolescents in Cuba, who are forced to take on economic responsibilities at a young age, but also their resilience and desire to overcome their circumstances.
On Facebook, Almenares joyfully shared the news of the first donation made to the barber boy from Bayamo: “First donation for Cristian. Thank you to everyone who is starting to support our social project ‘Sharing Joys’.”
She accompanied the post with an image showing a shaving machine kit and combs for the little one.
One of the most heartbreaking manifestations of the escalating economic crisis in Cuba is the growing number of stories about children and teenagers who are forced to work to help support their families.
In December, a heartbreaking scene unfolded for those at Havana's International Airport, where a boy selling candy ended up in a police car.
That same month, after a plea for help was made for a 15-year-old Cuban boy who, despite having a tracheotomy, sells pizzas on the streets of Camagüey to contribute some income to his household, several people expressed their intention to help the young man amid the severe economic crisis affecting the country.
"Everyone can contribute a little bit," said user Dane Amaya regarding this case in the Facebook group "Bulk Sales in Camagüey," where the situation of this young man was brought to light.
Frequently Asked Questions about Child Labor in Cuba and Christian's Story in Bayamo
Who is Christian and how does he make a living?
Christian is a 14-year-old boy from Bayamo, Cuba, who has been working as a barber since he was 12 to help support his family. He also sells charcoal and cassava to increase his income, facing a challenging economic situation and lacking the basic tools for his trade.
Why does Christian have to work from such a young age?
Christian has been working from a young age due to the difficult economic situation his family faces. He lives with his grandfather, his aunt, and a younger sister, who rely heavily on the income he generates. This situation reflects the reality for many children in Cuba who must take on financial responsibilities at an early age.
How is the community helping Christian?
The community, through social media and individuals like Eliecer Almenares, has called for solidarity to donate tools and barbering products to Christian. They also invite the residents of Bayamo to hire his services as a direct way of showing support.
What is the situation of child labor in Cuba?
Despite the legal prohibition, child labor is a reality in Cuba due to the economic crisis. Many children, like Christian, are forced to work to support their families, engaging in activities such as selling goods on the street, which jeopardizes their education and well-being.
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