Yasy Vidal, a Cuban emigrant living in Mijas, Málaga, has touched thousands on social media by sharing a video in which she reflects on her first year in Spain, far from her career as a computer engineer and currently working as a waitress.
“Today marks one year since I moved to Spain, where I’ve gone from being a computer scientist to a waitress, or rather, from having dreams to living realities,” she says in the emotional video posted on TikTok. She explains that she left Cuba with a small suitcase “full of memories and a heart brimming with hope,” convinced that her degree would be her passport to a better future. “Life had other plans for me,” she candidly admits.
Over the past twelve months, he recounts that the hardest part has been finding a job in his field. “I shifted from providing IT support to learning how to carry a tray; I went from my comfortable office chair to long hours on my feet, serving tables, pouring coffee, recommending wines, and getting to know cocktails.” He affirms that he has learned to polish silverware, set up service, and, above all, how to interact with people who come to enjoy themselves “while I smile with a weary soul.”
Despite the unexpected turn in her professional life, Yasy firmly defends her work dignity. “Being a waitress doesn’t erase my degree, my story, my goals, or my essence. On the contrary, it adds layers of strength, humility, and humanity.” She adds: “Today I am a waitress, a university waitress, yes indeed, and I am not ashamed to say it; on the contrary, it is an honor.”
Divided reactions: criticism, support, and shared stories
The video, which has accumulated thousands of views and comments, has generated a variety of reactions. Some users, especially other Cubans, questioned why he has not managed to integrate into the IT sector. “There is a lot of work in this field, so either you don't know how to look or you lack the necessary knowledge,” commented one internet user.
Yasy responded, defending her qualifications: “I’m not a programmer, although I did it a couple of years ago. I provided support and was a specialist in the department.”
Other users felt identified. “Today I am a university chef, with a degree in Special Education. But as I told my daughters: I try to do whatever comes my way, always with dignity and optimism,” commented one follower. A Cuban doctor shared that she worked as a receptionist and technician before practicing, and today she is the deputy director of a hospital.
She also received practical recommendations, such as creating a professional profile on LinkedIn, validating her degree, training in more in-demand areas like programming, and applying for jobs that allow remote work. Yasy explained that she has attended job fairs, submitted resumes, completed training courses, and is currently in the process of degree validation.
Meanwhile, at the restaurant where she works, she has found an opportunity to apply some of her knowledge: “I’m handling advertising, accounting, digital menu management, social media, and maintaining their four computers... although I spend most of the time as a waitress.”
Other testimonies: "There is nothing stronger than an immigrant."
Yasy's testimony adds to a series of similar stories from Cubans in Spain. Zaida Polanco, who has been living in the Iberian country for six years, celebrated her Spanish citizenship in May after overcoming numerous challenges as an undocumented immigrant.
Also, Karlita, a young Cuban in La Coruña, published a video defending the right of those who wish to emigrate without extinguishing their hope: “If you left Cuba to improve your life, why shouldn’t others be able to do the same?” she challenged those who discourage potential emigrants.
In April, Cuban doctor Sam Sabater shared his tears of joy over the validation of his degree after three years of waiting. "I count the days until I can wear a lab coat again and make my contribution," he wrote. His story, like many others, reflects the challenging journey of validating a professional career away from the island.
"I am sure that someday my opportunity will come."
"In the meantime, I continue here, learning, growing, and fighting for myself, for my loved ones, and for what I dreamed of when I boarded that plane on May 24, 2024," Yasy concludes. Her testimony has resonated with dozens of Cubans who, like her, have had to start over from scratch but have not lost sight of their goals.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cuban Emigration and Job Adaptation Abroad
Why did Yasy Vidal decide to emigrate from Cuba to Spain?
Yasy Vidal decided to emigrate from Cuba to Spain with the hope that her degree in computer engineering would allow her to get ahead. However, life led her to work as a waitress, which has provided her with enriching experiences and taught her to value labor dignity, despite not working in her professional field.
What have been the main challenges for Yasy Vidal in her first year in Spain?
The main challenge for Yasy Vidal has been finding employment in her profession as a computer engineer. During this first year, she has had to adapt to working as a waitress, which involved a significant change in her work life, from long hours on her feet to learning new skills such as bartending and customer service.
How has Yasy Vidal managed the criticism and support received on social media?
Yasy Vidal has received criticism for not having integrated into the tech sector, but she has also found support from other emigrants who identify with her situation. She defends her qualifications and takes pride in her current job as a waitress, emphasizing that this experience has taught her about resilience and the dignity of work.
What practical advice has Yasy Vidal received to advance her professional career in Spain?
Yasy Vidal has received advice on how to create a profile on LinkedIn, validate her degree, gain training in more in-demand areas, and apply for jobs that allow remote work. Additionally, she has attended job fairs and is in the process of validating her degree to enhance her job opportunities in the field of computer science.
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