A Cuban woman under I-220A immigration status in Miami has sought support from the community after opening a beauty salon that she has yet to get off the ground. The young woman was a victim of a robbery on the very day of her opening, and her case was highlighted by the influencer Dairon Cano, generating a wave of solidarity on social media.
"I need your help. I've been at this for three months, but well, I opened 15 days ago and nothing... I don't have girls to work, the customers aren't coming." This is how the testimony began of a Cuban woman identified as Yasmeli, visibly emotional, in a video shared by the influencer Dairon Cano. Through tears, she explained that she is trying to get her own beauty salon up and running in Miami, but she faces multiple obstacles.
The Cuban clarified that she is not seeking donations or charity, but collaboration. "I only ask the community... if anyone wants to rent, I have chairs for hairdressers, for kids, for a spa," she said, and reiterated: "I'm not asking for anything. Just that if you want to work, I open my door and my heart."
She recounted that on March 25, the same day she opened the salon, she became a victim of theft that forced her to start over. "They stole all my belongings, and I had to buy everything again," she said, while detailing that she is still paying monthly rent for the premises. She also noted that she has space set up for manicurists, hairdressers, and eyebrow and eyelash specialists.
During the recording, Dairon Cano offered his unconditional support. "Did I charge you a penny for this?" he asked. "No, never," Yasmeli replied. The influencer encouraged her not to give up and assured her that many people will come to her salon: "You'll see that people are going to come here to your hair salon, and you'll find a hairdresser, you heard me, my love. Have faith."
The reaction on social media was immediate. Hundreds of people expressed their support for Yasmeli. Many recalled their own experiences starting from scratch, shared tips to improve the salon's visibility, or stated they would visit to support her as clients. There were also those who regretted not being in Miami to join her venture but promised to share the video and help spread the word.
Many people persistently asked for the address of the salon, expressing interest in coming as clients or even to work there. Some mentioned being in other states, like Arizona or Texas, but assured that they would stop by if they visited Miami. Others offered direct support: “I’m a professional manicurist,” “I’ll work with you,” “I’ll support you, even from afar.” One woman, who claimed to know Yasmeli from her neighborhood in Mantilla, wished her success and blessings, while another wrote that it brought her to tears to see her cry and that she would share the video to help. Personal testimonies also emerged from those who started their own businesses from scratch, advising her to stay strong, post more on social media, offer a variety of services, and not give up. Amid the encouragement, one phrase was repeated with fervor among dozens of comments: “Those tears will turn into joy.”
The story of Yasmeli adds to other similar ones recently shared by Dairon Cano, such as that of a Cuban mother with an I-220A who works in a food truck in Homestead while studying and supporting her children, or the story of an entrepreneur in Tampa who managed to open a clinic and reunite her whole family after years of hard work.
Also notable is the recent case of a Cuban family who lost everything in a fire and received immediate assistance from the community after being highlighted by the same influencer.
Like those testimonies, Yasmeli's reflects the challenges faced by many Cubans newly arrived in the United States, especially those without defined immigration status. But it also showcases the resilience and determination to succeed through hard work, despite the adversity.
"This is a Cuban, family, I-220A… you see, strong people are like this at the beginning. You will see that everything will turn out well for you, my love," Dairon concluded, confident that, as in other cases he has been involved in, collective support will make a difference.
Frequently asked questions about the challenges faced by Cuban immigrants in Miami and community support
What is the I-220A immigration status?
The I-220A status, known as "Order of Supervised Release," is a document that allows for the release of individuals from federal custody under certain conditions, such as attending immigration hearings and not violating local or federal laws. This status is not considered an official admission to the country nor does it grant immigration benefits, leaving beneficiaries in a state of legal uncertainty.
What is the situation of Yasmeli, the Cuban with I-220A in Miami?
Yasmeli is a Cuban with I-220A immigration status who opened a beauty salon in Miami, but she is facing challenges in attracting customers and workers after being a victim of a robbery on the opening day. Despite the adversities, she is not asking for donations but rather for collaboration to visit her salon or rent the available spaces to work.
How has Dairon Cano influenced the situation of Cubans in the U.S.?
Dairon Cano is a Cuban influencer who has gained recognition for his support of Cuban immigrants in the United States. He uses his social media to highlight the stories of fellow countrymen facing difficulties and to mobilize community support, fostering solidarity and job connections. His influence has been significant in cases like that of Yasmeli and other immigrants striving to succeed.
What obstacles do Cuban entrepreneurs in Miami face?
Cuban entrepreneurs in Miami face barriers such as a lack of established networks, high labor competition, and, in some cases, language barriers. Furthermore, the uncertain legal situation, such as the I-220A status, can limit their business and employment opportunities, making community support crucial for their success.
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