Cuban woman in the U.S. surprises her gringo coworker with an emotional gift: "Now you've officially made him Cuban."

A Cuban woman touches hearts on social media by giving her partner in the U.S. a pendant of the island of Cuba, symbolizing cultural identity and proudly showcasing the Cuban diaspora with love and affection.


A Cuban woman has captured the hearts of social media after surprising her American coworker with a very special and symbolic gift: a necklace with a pendant of the island of Cuba decorated with the colors of the national flag.

The gesture took place in what appears to be the kitchen of a workplace, possibly a restaurant or café in the United States, where both share work shifts.

In the video, posted by the young woman @anislachina90 on TikTok, she is seen handing over the chain while excitedly saying, "We are going to name it Cuban."

His companion, visibly moved, thanks him for the gift and allows him to put the pendant around his neck, amidst smiles and hugs. “Now you’ve truly baptized him,” wrote a follower, reinforcing the symbolism of the act.

The video has quickly gone viral, accumulating thousands of views and comments from users who applaud the gesture of affection and camaraderie between the two.

Many highlight the joy and pride with which Cubans share their culture wherever they go, even in small details like this.

"That's what it means to be Cuban, sharing who we are with the world," wrote one user. Another commented, "How lovely to see how we carry Cuba in our hearts and give it away with love."

These types of everyday interactions have become a window into the soul of the Cuban diaspora, which keeps its symbols and cultural identity alive even far from the island.

Frequently asked questions about cultural symbolism and Cuban identity abroad

What does the gift of a necklace with a pendant of Cuba represent?

The gift symbolizes the pride and cultural identity of Cubans that emigrants carry with them, even far from the island. It is a gesture of affection that strengthens cultural ties and demonstrates how Cubans share their essence with those around them.

How has the community on social media reacted to the video from @anislachina90?

The community has reacted very positively, praising the gesture of the Cuban and highlighting the joy and camaraderie conveyed in the video. Many users have commented on the importance of keeping traditions and cultural pride alive, even in the diaspora.

What is the impact of these types of gestures among Cubans abroad?

This type of gesture strengthens the sense of community and belonging among Cubans abroad, helping to keep their cultural identity alive. Acts like these highlight the ability of Cubans to share their joy and culture, creating meaningful connections with people from other nationalities.

Filed under:

Yare Grau

Originally from Cuba, but living in Spain. I studied Social Communication at the University of Havana and later graduated in Audiovisual Communication from the University of Valencia. I am currently part of the CiberCuba team as an editor in the Entertainment section.