"Would you believe me if I told you that I started my cleaning business with less than 100 dollars?" This is how the viral video shared on TikTok by the young Cuban Leidy Aragón, who lives in the United States, begins; once again, she has inspired thousands with her story of resilience and entrepreneurship.
"Yes, you heard that right. I had no knowledge of the products I needed, where to find them, or which ones were the best. The only thing I knew was that I wanted to get ahead," Leidy said in the video, which in just one day on the platform surpassed 800 thousand views. In it, she shares how she managed to start her own business after getting tired of earning only 20 dollars for cleaning a house.
According to what she shared on her profile @leidy.aragon, her first step was to buy a second-hand vacuum cleaner at Goodwill for about 20 dollars and other basic supplies at Dollar Tree. "I literally didn't spend even 100 dollars, but that's how I started this," she stated.
"When you have the desire to move forward, you accomplish it no matter what. You try to find solutions instead of making excuses," said the Cuban, who also wrote in the post: "There are no excuses when you really want to do something, and my advice to you is to start; embark on whatever you have, but do it, it will be the best thing you do."
In the comments of the video, which garnered over 22,000 'likes' and hundreds of supportive messages in just one day, many people—especially women—shared their fears, aspirations to start their own ventures, and admiration for Leidy's example. "I really want to do it, but my problem is that I'm very insecure," one user wrote. Another confessed, "My husband has wanted to give me the money, a van, and everything to start, but I feel alone and scared."
The testimony of this entrepreneur has sparked a wide dialogue about the challenges of starting a cleaning business in the U.S., particularly among Latinas. Many asked about pricing, permits, how to acquire initial clients, or where to buy supplies like the organizer bag Leidy showcases in her videos. She responded with advice and encouragement, emphasizing that in her early days she also lacked clients and her own transportation.
This is not the first time the Cuban has inspired with her story. In another video, she explained how she has managed to live well in the U.S. by cleaning houses, and on another occasion, she shared an uncomfortable experience with a client titled "Don't make this mistake".
She has also responded to those who criticize her work, reaffirming her pride in cleaning houses and supporting her family honorably. As a single mother, she shared how she has succeeded in the U.S. with her son, not giving up in the face of difficulties.
Leidy Aragón has not only built a business with her own hands, but she has also become a role model for many migrant women seeking economic independence and dignified work in a foreign land. Her motto is clear: "Start with what you have, but start."
Frequently asked questions about Leidy Aragón's entrepreneurship and the success of Cubans in the U.S.
How did Leidy Aragón start her cleaning business in the USA?
Leidy Aragón started her cleaning business with less than 100 dollars, purchasing a second-hand vacuum at Goodwill and basic supplies at Dollar Tree. Despite having no experience or clients at the beginning, her determination to succeed was key to her success.
What advice does Leidy Aragón offer to those who wish to embark on entrepreneurship?
Leidy Aragón advises entrepreneurs to start with what they have and not make excuses, as the key to success is perseverance and the pursuit of solutions. She encourages others to take the first step toward entrepreneurship with the resources available.
What has been the impact of Leidy Aragón's testimony on social media?
The testimony of Leidy Aragón has inspired thousands of people, especially Latina women in the U.S., to share their own fears and desires to start businesses. Her story has sparked a broad dialogue about the challenges and opportunities in the cleaning industry.
How has the context of other Cubans in the U.S. influenced Leidy Aragón's story?
Stories of other Cubans, such as Yardenis Alfonso Marrero and Yenny González, reinforce the spirit of resilience and entrepreneurship among Cuban migrants in the U.S. These narratives highlight the determination and effort of Cubans to achieve success in a new country.
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