Aurora Ledesma, a 26-year-old young farmer, has won over thousands of users on social media by proudly and simply showcasing what a workday looks like on La Islita, her farm in Villa Clara, Cuba.
Through a video posted on Instagram, where she appears as @aurora_in_cuba, the young woman demonstrates the process of planting a hundredweight of corn with the help of a tractor and a John Deere planter, instead of the traditional method using oxen and manual labor.
In the images, Aurora explains each step. From preparing the soil at the optimal time, filling the seed containers, adjusting the distance between plants, and ensuring the mechanism operates smoothly, to removing logs or stones from the row to avoid interrupting the planting.
“In a morning, we planted more than 4 hectares”, he recounts with pride, while inviting his followers to learn more about his farming life on his YouTube channel.
The post triggered an avalanche of messages, both critical and positive, with the latter being the most abundant as they highlight the value of their effort and the authenticity of their content.
“This is a perfect example of how positive social media can be”, wrote a user. Others encourage her to keep going. “Well done, darling, keep it up”, they say.
“I hope you go viral and can go to Brazil to import your tractor”; “You are the true champions”, comment other people.
For many, Aurora's case breaks stereotypes and highlights a new generation of young people who choose to stay in the countryside to work and thrive, despite the challenges facing the agricultural sector on the island.
“If people are working, it bothers them; and if they're on the corners stealing wallets, that bothers them too. I don't understand people”, reflected another user in the comments.
A user was more expressive in saying that she stumbled upon the content of this young farmer, "but I stay by choice."
With technical advice, a love for the land, and an optimistic outlook, Aurora has made her content not only informative but also inspiring.
His story demonstrates that, even amidst material hardship, consistent work and ingenuity can open doors, create community, and change the perception of what it means to be a farmer in Cuba.
Frequently asked questions about rural life in Cuba and the influence of social media
Who is Aurora Ledesma and why is she known on social media?
Aurora Ledesma is a 26-year-old young Cuban farmer who has gained popularity on social media by sharing her life and work on the La Islita farm, located in Villa Clara, Cuba. Through videos, she authentically and proudly showcases the process of planting corn using modern machinery, which has generated a wave of support for her efforts and contribution to breaking stereotypes about young people in the Cuban countryside.
How has Aurora Ledesma impacted the perception of agricultural work in Cuba?
The case of Aurora Ledesma breaks stereotypes and highlights a new generation of young people who choose to work in agriculture, demonstrating that it is possible to thrive despite the challenges of the agricultural sector on the island. Her content is not only informative but also inspiring, showing that hard work and ingenuity can change the perception of what it means to be a farmer in Cuba.
What challenges does agriculture in Cuba face according to Aurora Ledesma?
Aurora Ledesma emphasizes that, despite material shortages, the use of technology can improve efficiency in agriculture. She uses a John Deere tractor and planter to sow corn, instead of the traditional method with oxen, which allows her to plant over 4 hectares in one morning. This approach highlights the importance of access to modern machinery to overcome the limitations of the agricultural sector in Cuba.
What role do social media play for young Cubans in rural areas?
Social media has become an important platform for young people like Aurora Ledesma to share their daily experiences and challenges in agriculture, creating support and community. Authentic and optimistic content, like Aurora's, not only informs but also inspires other young people to appreciate agricultural work and to view farming as a viable space for prosperity, despite the economic and social difficulties in Cuba.
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