Being a millionaire doesn't always mean having millions in the bank. For AndyRousMC (@andyrousmc), a Cuban creator who left the island and now lives in Mexico, wealth is measured by things that may seem simple to many: electricity all day long, enjoying cereal for breakfast without worries, and, above all, freedom. His reflection on TikTok went viral and sparked a flood of reactions.
In a video that has garnered thousands of views, the young man held nothing back: "I’m a Cuban millionaire living in Mexico: here I have electricity 24 hours a day, here I can earn a salary that allows me to buy everything I need to live, here I can drink 100% purified water, here I can have milk and cereal for breakfast every morning without any problem, here I can eat eggs without any issue, knowing that the cost of one of these in Cuba is the average salary of a person in a month," he said in his widely discussed video.
"There are a thousand types of quality and quantity of oils here to cook my food, and the most important thing I have in Mexico is my freedom, because I tell you from the heart, the first thing a person who wants to grow and be someone great in life must have is freedom,” he added.
The clip, published with the phrase “This is why I consider myself a millionaire!!! Living in Mexico,” quickly went viral, garnering tens of thousands of likes and comments praising his gratitude and his message about the difference between living in Cuba and in a country where—according to him—dreams can actually come true.
"Welcome, brother."
The comments were mostly a wave of welcome and national pride: “God bless Mexico and Mexicans. Thank you for welcoming us”; “You are indeed welcome in my country, you are grateful and you’re not acting like you know the situation, always humility!!"; “How beautiful and refreshing it is to hear someone like you speak so positively about Mexico,” some said to him.
Some, however, took the opportunity to warn: “Enjoy it while you can, because Mexico is on its way to becoming Cuba,” while others responded with humor: “Six years ago they said we were going to be like Cuba or Venezuela, but we are stronger than ever.”
A growing debate: Is being a millionaire synonymous with freedom?
What Andy said is not an isolated case. More and more Cubans migrating to other countries share similar reflections. In October 2024, the YouTuber Michel Crónicas stated in another viral video that in Mexico, he feels wealthy because of basic things like a coffee with milk or being able to take a hot shower (read here). The influencer Anita Mateu, from Spain, also spoke about how having a variety of food or clothing makes her feel "rich" compared to her life in Cuba (see more).
The common denominator in all these testimonies is freedom. It's not just about food, water, or electricity. It's the feeling of being able to choose, grow, and decide without constraints. And, as Andy insists, that for him "is worth more than any fortune."
Frequently asked questions about the experience of Cubans migrating and living in Mexico
Why does AndyRousMC consider himself a "millionaire" living in Mexico?
AndyRousMC considers himself a "millionaire" because in Mexico he has access to basic things that are scarce or difficult to obtain in Cuba, such as 24-hour electricity, purified water, and the ability to buy basic groceries like milk and cereal without worries. For him, true wealth lies in the freedom to choose and live without restrictions.
What is the main difference between living in Cuba and Mexico according to AndyRousMC?
According to AndyRousMC, the main difference is freedom. In Mexico, you can choose what to eat, what to buy, and how to live your life without the limitations and restrictions faced in Cuba. The freedom to grow and make personal choices is what he values most about his life in Mexico.
What reactions has AndyRousMC's video generated among social media users?
The video by AndyRousMC has generated a wave of positive reactions on social media, primarily from users in Mexico who welcome him and appreciate his gratitude towards the country. However, there have also been warnings and humor regarding the situation in Mexico, comparing it to that of Cuba.
Is it common for Cubans who emigrate to share testimonies similar to that of AndyRousMC?
Yes, it is common for Cubans who emigrate to share similar testimonies about the difference in quality of life. Many highlight the accessibility of basic goods and freedom as the main positive changes after leaving Cuba. These experiences have gone viral on platforms like TikTok, reflecting a collective sentiment about the pursuit of a better life.
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