A Cuban residing in Mexico has gone viral after sharing a video on TikTok where she offers six key tips for other migrants who, like her, are trying to adapt to life outside of Cuba. Her testimony, marked by personal experience and candidness, has sparked a flood of reactions, both supportive and controversial.
In the video, the young Cuban @calderinjenni provides a guide based on her adaptation process to the Mexican context. She states that the first thing that helped her was having concrete goals, such as buying a bed, a pot, or a refrigerator—small but significant goals that gave her motivation. She also recommends being a diligent worker, taking care of one’s job, putting in effort, and being honest, as this opens doors and provides stability. Another piece of advice she offers is to set achievable savings goals, which, she claims, boosts self-esteem and instills confidence. Moreover, she advises prioritizing personal well-being before financially supporting family members in Cuba, to avoid situations of dependency or vulnerability. She emphasizes the importance of not being overcome by depression or the idealized expectations many Cubans have before emigrating, and stresses that each person should follow their own path without trying to imitate others, as what works for one may not work for another.
His words, filled with sincerity and common sense, have particularly resonated with those experiencing similar migration processes. “When you achieve what you desire so much... the satisfaction is on another level,” he states in the clip, which has garnered thousands of views.
The reactions came quickly. Many Mexican users welcomed her, highlighting her maturity, strength, and mindset. Some even publicly congratulated her, offered job assistance, or simply wished her success. Others expressed their emotions, relating to her struggle, especially those who have also emigrated or understand the sacrifices involved in starting over in a different country.
However, there were also comments with a critical or sarcastic tone, ranging from questions like “When are you coming back?” to messages that questioned their presence in Mexico. Some urged them to “contribute to Mexican society,” while others made xenophobic remarks with expressions such as “another Cuban” or “it's urgent to close the southern border.” There were also messages with personal or romantic implications, including marriage proposals and suggestions, highlighting the wide variety of reactions that this type of content generates on social media.
Este testimonio se suma a una serie de historias recientes que reflejan la complejidad del proceso migratorio cubano en México. Gley, otra joven cubana, relató días atrás la dura travesía desde Cuba hasta Tapachula, pasando por Nicaragua y Centroamérica. Con el apoyo de su esposo mexicano, logró establecerse y legalizar su estatus, recibiendo miles de mensajes de solidaridad en TikTok. También Maryfra, otra cubana radicada en Quintana Roo, respondió públicamente a quienes la instan a regresar a Cuba, generando un amplio debate sobre la integración de los migrantes. Por su parte, el creador de contenido Michel Chronicles ha publicado varios videos en los que compara la calidad de vida en México con la escasez y precariedad que vivía en la isla, reflexionando sobre los contrastes entre ambas realidades. Otro testimonio viral es el de Elizabeth, quien aseguró que la primera vez que pudo comprarse algo con su propio dinero fue en México y no en su país de origen.
These stories illustrate a migration driven by the search for dignity, economic stability, and freedom. Far from the official promises, many Cubans find outside their country the conditions that allow them to envision a future. And although criticism and xenophobia are still present, the support from a significant part of Mexican society and the determination of those striving to move forward reinforce their decision to not look back.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cuban Migration in Mexico
What are the key tips for Cuban migrants in Mexico?
The key recommendations include setting concrete goals such as small targets to stay motivated, being a good worker and honest to open doors, setting achievable savings goals, and prioritizing personal well-being before sending financial assistance to family in Cuba. It is also important not to be overcome by depression or unrealistic expectations.
Why do some Cubans in Mexico prefer not to bring their relatives from Cuba?
Some Cubans in Mexico prefer not to bring their family members because they believe this could lead to conflicts. Integration can be complicated, with issues of adapting to the rules of coexistence and unrealistic expectations about work and life in the new country, which can lead to family conflicts.
How do Mexicans react to the presence of Cubans in their country?
The reaction of Mexicans towards Cubans in their country is varied. Many Mexicans offer support and show solidarity with Cuban migrants, welcoming them and wishing them success. However, there are also critical and xenophobic comments, although they do not represent the majority of the Mexican population.
What is the impact of social media on the migratory experience of Cubans?
Social media has a significant impact on the migratory experience of Cubans, as it allows them to share testimonials, advice, and receive support from a wide audience. These platforms facilitate connections with other migrants and highlight the challenges and achievements in their integration process, generating online discussions and solidarity.
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