A young Cuban woman living in Brazil has shared a video on TikTok with reflections on the mistakes she wouldn't repeat if she had to emigrate again, generating a wave of reactions among migrants who related to her experiences.
In the video published by the user @yaicontigo, the young woman appears demonstrating part of her daily routine while listing three decisions she would completely change in retrospect. The first of these is having paid too much attention to others' experiences. “Every person is a different world,” she notes, adding that many tried to discourage her when she arrived in Brazil with “idealized” goals, which she assures she has been gradually fulfilling. “I wouldn’t stop doing what my heart says because of others' experiences,” she emphasizes.
The second mistake he mentions is trusting others too much, especially fellow countrymen. “I went through some very unpleasant situations with people, and the saddest part is that they were Cubans just like me,” he laments. Nevertheless, he says he has also met supportive individuals, and he asserts that, while he would continue to help those in need, he would do so “with much more caution.”
The third aspect he regrets is having spent too much money upon arrival, believing that everything was cheap compared to prices in dollars in Cuba. “I spent a lot of unnecessary money that I could have used for other more important things,” he comments. It was only when he started working and better understood the Brazilian economy that he began to manage his resources more efficiently.
Reactions: "The Whole Truth"
The post sparked extensive conversation among migrants, especially Cubans in Brazil. Many users shared similar experiences. “I spent five thousand dollars trying to open a business, and I still have a lot of merchandise stored away,” commented one internet user. Another added, “I wouldn’t buy used appliances again; I lost the money.”
Others agreed with the advice regarding others' experiences: "Everyone lives their own experiences," "I wouldn't let anyone guide me; some have a knack for discouraging others," they wrote.
A pattern among Cuban migrants
The testimony of @yaicontigo adds to other viral videos of Cuban women abroad who have shared their insights. In Miami, a young woman advised not to take on multiple jobs and to start a business right away.
In the Netherlands, another Cuban recommended learning the language and seeking cultural integration, while from Spain, a third person urged newcomers to save money and avoid working for other Cubans, following negative work experiences.
In Uruguay, a Cuban woman precisely detailed the initial costs of living and housing, and recommended arriving with between 2,500 and 4,500 dollars depending on the type of accommodation, in addition to prioritizing savings from the start.
In all cases, these posts have resonated with migrant communities that value practical, realistic, and experience-based advice. As one user remarked after watching the video from @yaicontigo: “That's right, queen… others' experiences are to be heard, but one must forge their own path.”
Frequently Asked Questions about Mistakes When Immigrating to Brazil
What are the main mistakes that a Cuban woman in Brazil would not make again when emigrating?
The main mistakes I wouldn't make again are: paying too much attention to other people's experiences, relying too much on others, especially fellow countrymen, and spending too much money upon arrival believing that everything is cheap. The young Cuban emphasizes that it is important to follow one's own instincts, be cautious when trusting others, and manage financial resources better.
Why is it important not to be influenced by others' experiences when emigrating?
It is important not to let oneself be influenced by the experiences of others because each person has a different path and circumstances. The Cuban in Brazil emphasizes that even if others try to discourage her with their negative experiences, one must focus on their own goals and follow their heart.
What precautions does a Cuban in Brazil recommend when trusting others, especially fellow countrymen?
The Cuban recommends being more cautious when trusting others, even fellow nationals, as she has had unpleasant experiences with people of her own nationality. Although there are supportive individuals, it is essential to be careful and selective when giving and accepting help.
How can poor financial management affect someone when arriving in a new country?
Poor financial management upon arriving in a new country can lead to unnecessary spending on things that may seem cheap compared to the home country. The Cuban in Brazil points out that it is crucial to understand the local economy and manage resources efficiently to avoid long-term financial difficulties.
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