The young Cuban Leandro Hernández, known on TikTok as @leo.a.secas8, has gone viral after sharing an emotional testimony from Peru, where he currently resides after seeking political asylum. In a video that has generated thousands of reactions, Hernández demonstrates how he has managed to integrate professionally in the Andean country, working in the field for which he was trained in Cuba.
"I was able to start working in my field after emigrating. No matter how many memes are made about it, Peru is definitely a land of opportunities," the young man said in a brief video recorded at what appears to be his workplace, as he puts on a white coat and safety gloves.
In the post description, Hernández explained: “Although many may not know it, I studied Mechanical Engineering and I am also a mechanical technician by profession. About a month ago, I was able to return to this field that I love so much.”
The post received an outpouring of supportive messages from both Peruvians and other Cubans who commend her effort, perseverance, and positive attitude. “This is the quality of foreigners we deserve to welcome,” commented one user, while another wrote: “Peru welcoming experts in their fields… this is the way to development.”
Since his arrival in Peru at the end of 2024, Hernández has documented his adaptation process. Last March, he celebrated his first three months in the country with another viral video: "Today is March 4. Officially, three months ago the Peruvian Foreign Relations office allowed me entry into the country... learning about the real world, because of course, buddy, they pulled me out of Narnia," he said at that time.
In February, another one of his videos touched thousands by showing how he managed to set up his first room from scratch: a bed, a table, and a chair after weeks of sleeping on the floor. "Another step in this country," he titled the clip.
Hernández has also openly questioned the Cuban regime's propaganda regarding the healthcare system on the island. In June, after visiting a medical center in Peru, he stated: “It is very satisfying to experience firsthand the demystification that Cuba is a medical powerhouse. Oh, how they lied to us!”.
His story, marked by humility and resilience, reflects the reality of thousands of Cubans who have had to leave their country in search of a dignified future. In every post, Hernández shows that with effort and determination, it is possible to start anew, even in a foreign land.
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