A Cuban woman residing in Brazil recently took to social media to respond to a comment accusing her of romanticizing capitalism. She passionately argued that this economic system has made her a stronger person. Known on TikTok as @yaicubabrasil, she firmly stated, “Capitalism is not for everyone,” and challenged those who claim Brazil is a poor choice for emigration.
“Whenever I see people here with nearly all their family, their partner, children, everything, complaining that this country is worthless and that they can't get ahead, let me explain something,” she shared. “I arrived here at 19 and went through very tough economic times. There was a point when all I wanted was to return to Cuba because I didn't have a dime,” she recalled, before describing how hard work and sacrifice helped her find her footing in Brazil.
Adapt or Leave: The Reality of Capitalism
Yai expressed gratitude for not going back to Cuba, adding, “Capitalism is not for everyone because if you don’t have what it takes to endure capitalism, these things happen. I say, if you're so regretful about coming to Brazil, work, and with two months’ salary, you can afford a ticket back to Cuba.”
In her video, she emphasized that Brazil is a vast country and recommended that Cubans move to southern cities, where better job opportunities are available for immigrants starting anew. “Don't talk nonsense. If capitalism doesn't suit you, leave. Capitalism isn't supposed to adapt to you; you need to adapt to capitalism. The same people who criticize capitalism are the ones you see on weekends drinking countless beers,” she added.
The Cuban Lifestyle vs. Capitalist Expectations
Reflecting on life in Cuba, she noted, “People there are used to getting by without working because in Cuba, no one really works, and those who do, barely work. Capitalism is for those who work, who have the mindset to start something because in capitalism, if you stay working for someone else, you’ll always be a slave... It’s not the country that gives you opportunities.”
Recently, there’s been a heated debate on social media among Cubans. While some argue that Brazil isn’t an ideal place to emigrate, others see many advantages in the South American giant.