"I decided to have debts, but also memories": Young Cuban travels to the island, and her grandmother steals the show with her dancing

A young Cuban goes viral on TikTok with a video featuring her family in Cuba, highlighting her grandmother for her dancing. The video emphasizes the value of memories over economic concerns.


A young Cuban has taken TikTok by storm with an emotional and joyful video in which she is seen enjoying time with her family in Cuba, carefree about debts and bills that she has to pay. The clip, featuring her dancing with loved ones — including her grandmother, who steals the show with her dance moves — has sparked a wave of reactions filled with nostalgia, affection, and solidarity.

The video was posted by the user @madeleisysandoval3 and features the infectious song “Kimba pa que suene” by the group Los Principales, which adds even more energy to the family celebration scene.

“Me with my family in Cuba without thinking about the bills... because I decided to have debts, but also memories”, wrote the video's creator, making it clear that for her, returning to her homeland and sharing moments with her loved ones has an invaluable worth.

Amidst laughter, music, and a cozy atmosphere, the grandmother becomes the unexpected star of the video. With spontaneous movements and a lot of energy, she sparked a wave of comments: “The grandmother is on point,” “Go for it, Grandma!” and “She steals the show,” were some of the most frequently repeated phrases by the followers.

The clip has particularly resonated among Cubans in the diaspora, who share similar feelings. “Unfortunately, I hardly have any family left in Cuba to enjoy this way; everyone left as best as they could,” comments a user with evident sadness. Others see it as an inspiration: “Very well said. Now there are two of us... family comes first, and you never know how long we will have them.”

Most agree that family moments are priceless. "In the end, debts come every month, but family doesn't," wrote a user in what has become the reflection that best captures the spirit of the video.

Among the blessings, the heartfelt comments, and the messages of admiration, many highlight the importance of leaving behind material worries to enjoy what truly matters: hugs, laughter, and memories with loved ones.

"We all go through those moments... paying the bills later, but with flavor," summarized a follower with a touch of cheekiness.

Frequently asked questions about family reunions in Cuba

Why did the video of the young Cuban dancing with her grandmother become so popular on TikTok?

The video became popular because it reflects the joy and value of family moments, especially in a context where many Cubans face prolonged separations due to emigration. The spontaneity and energy of the grandmother dancing captured the attention of users, generating a surge of nostalgic and supportive comments from the Cuban diaspora.

What message does the young Cuban convey by choosing to incur debt while also creating memories?

The young woman conveys that the moments shared with family hold immeasurable value, and she is willing to incur debt to create cherished memories. This decision particularly resonates with Cubans in the diaspora, who understand the sacrifices and the importance of maintaining family ties despite economic hardships.

How do social media contribute to the dissemination of Cuban family reunions?

Social media, especially TikTok, allows these reunion stories to reach a wide audience, generating empathy and connection among people who have lived through similar situations of family separation. Additionally, they help to highlight the challenges faced by Cuban families due to the diaspora.

Why are videos of Cuban grandmothers so popular on the internet?

These videos are popular because they touch a deep emotional chord, highlighting the importance of family bonds and the unconditional love between grandparents and grandchildren. The authenticity and emotional impact of these moments create a strong reaction among viewers, especially those who have experienced family separations.

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Izabela Pecherska

Editor at CiberCuba. Graduated in Journalism from the Rey Juan Carlos University of Madrid, Spain. Editor at El Mundo and PlayGround.