"There is nothing stronger than an immigrant", stated Zaida Polanco, a Cuban who has been living in Spain for six years, in an emotional video she shared on her TikTok account, which has sparked a wave of reactions within the migrant community. Known as Zaida Cincuentona, she publicly celebrated having received her Spanish passport and becoming an official Spanish citizen.
"The price of emigrating, the reward of winning."
In her video lasting over three minutes titled "The Cost of Emigration, the Reward of Winning," Zaida vividly and passionately describes the challenges she faced as an undocumented immigrant. "You encounter barriers as overwhelming as not having papers, and with that, we have all or almost all doors closed," she recounted. "That makes us feel so incredibly vulnerable that life becomes chaotic."
With a firm voice, she recalled that, despite the suffering, she never lost sight of her goal. “There will be people who supposedly want to help you and… they feel entitled to control you,” she stated. “How hard, how painful!” she expressed, referring to those who take advantage of migrants in irregular situations. But she also made it clear that not everyone is subdued: “If we were able to fit an entire life into a suitcase, we can overcome any obstacles they put in our way”.
The climax of the video comes when Zaida announces, visibly emotional: “I am happy, I am content because today I received my Spanish passport. I am a Spanish citizen! I have my ID, I have my Spanish passport, and I am filled with happiness”. With that joy, she sent a direct message to those still struggling to legalize their situation: “You are not going to stop until you get your papers. You are not going to stop until you are a Spanish citizen”. And she closed with a powerful slogan: “To you, immigrant, to you undocumented: let the world know that you will not let yourself be crushed so easily”.
Reactions: "Only those who have experienced it know how much it hurts."
Zaida's testimony sparked a flood of supportive messages. Dozens of Cuban emigrants—and others from different nationalities—found their experiences mirrored in her story. Some shared similar experiences, such as being humiliated or exploited for lacking documentation. “I am also in that process, and your words give me the strength to go on,” wrote one user. Another noted, “I have been at this for four years and have cried a lot, but for my family, I will keep fighting.”
Zaida herself responded with messages of encouragement and empowerment: “The community becomes stronger when we share our stories. You are not alone”; “We are tougher than the August sun in Cuba”; “Being undocumented is not a crime, it is a condition imposed by failing systems.”
A path shared by many
Zaida's case is not isolated. In recent months, CiberCuba has documented numerous similar testimonies from Cubans in Spain who have faced long waits, complex processes, and vulnerable situations, but who, with perseverance, have achieved important goals.
This happened with the Cuban doctor known on social media as @wlenda.5, who celebrated the recognition of her Medical degree after more than two years of waiting, describing it as “the best end-of-year gift.” She then said, “I don’t know how to describe what I feel, if it’s happiness... This is on another level.”
The young doctor Sam Sabater also moved thousands as he tearfully shared the official confirmation of his professional accreditation after three years of waiting. “You understand that all the sacrifice and effort was worth it,” he said emotionally in a viral video. “My life begins anew today.”
In a different tone, the Cuban influencer Karlita, based in La Coruña, called for not discouraging those who still dream of leaving Cuba. “If you left Cuba to improve your life, why can't others do the same?”, she questioned. Her reflection appealed to empathy among migrants, reminding that each experience is unique and deserves respect.
Even figures like the YouTuber Frank Camallerys have recently shared the moment when they received Spanish citizenship. “I can now proudly say that I am Cuban-Spanish. This is not just a document; it's a piece of my history,” he expressed on his social media.
The voice of a community that does not give up
Zaida is part of a growing wave of Cubans who, from various corners of Spain, have found in social media a space to share their stories, vent their feelings, and support others. Her words not only inspire those in similar situations, but also shed light on the administrative and social barriers faced by thousands of people each year.
His final message is a statement of principles: “Even when things get tough, don't stop persevering. With discipline and consistency, everything is achievable.” Amid uncertainty, his story stands as a symbol of struggle, resilience, and hope.
Frequently Asked Questions about Spanish Citizenship for Cubans and the Emigration Experience
Why is it important for Cubans to obtain Spanish citizenship?
Obtaining Spanish citizenship is important for Cubans because it represents the fulfillment of a dream and the opportunity to start a new life with stability and rights in a country they consider their second home. Furthermore, it symbolizes the integration and gratitude towards a country that offers them opportunities and security that they do not find in Cuba.
How do social media react to the achievements of Cubans who obtain Spanish citizenship?
The reaction on social media is mostly positive, with many users congratulating and celebrating the achievement of Cubans who obtain Spanish citizenship. Although there are some criticisms questioning the enthusiasm of acquiring a new nationality, these are less frequent compared to the support received.
What challenges do Cubans face when emigrating to Spain?
Cubans who emigrate to Spain face challenges such as job searching, cultural adaptation, and a lack of initial support. However, many appreciate the opportunities and stability they find outside of Cuba, which contrasts with the economic and social difficulties they face on the island.
How does Cuban emigration affect the families that remain on the island?
Cuban emigration generates an emotional and economic burden for families left on the island. Emigrants often send money and resources to support their loved ones in Cuba, creating expectations and, at times, tensions due to constant demands and the economic pressure on those who have emigrated.
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