"Six stories high and unafraid": Cubans in Mexico share their challenging work experiences



Two Cubans from Santiago work in construction in Mexico and share in a video the sacrifices and risks they face every day to get ahead far from home.

Alfredo Sierra Fernández, one of the young people from Santiago making his way in MexicoPhoto © Collage Facebook/Marilyn Alvarez

From Santiago de Cuba to Mexico, two young Cubans share their work experience in a video that reflects the effort and determination with which they tackle the new challenges of emigration.

In the images shared on social media, they can be seen working on a construction project over six stories high.

With very little protective gear, one of them, identified as Alfredo Sierra Fernández, recounts the harsh routine of those seeking a better future outside of Cuba.

“One doesn't realize what they have until they leave the country, just so you know. Look at what one has to face,” he comments while pointing out the height from which he works.

"If you don't, just imagine being hung six stories up and then buy yourself some clothes; it's no big deal," he added.

Both, originally from Santiago de Cuba, are engaged in construction work in Mexican territory, a sector that provides employment opportunities for many migrants, although under conditions of high physical demand and constant risk.

The brief clip, accompanied by the message “From Santiago de Cuba, two Cubans face new challenges in Mexico. At six stories high, hard work and determination unite us,” has sparked reactions on social media, where users highlight the courage and resilience of those who emigrate to support their families.

For thousands of Cubans abroad, stories like this represent the daily reality of emigration: long hours, difficult jobs, and the nostalgia for what was left behind.

But also, the conviction that each day of effort is another step toward a worthy life.

Above all, they express the desire to do anything to escape the dictatorship in Cuba.

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CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.