Achieving What I Couldn't in My Homeland: A Cuban Woman's Heartfelt Tale in Canada

Cuban expatriate Sahily, known on TikTok as @sahicuban, recently shared a video reflecting on her life in Canada, contrasting it with her past experiences in Cuba. In her outdoor testimony, accompanied by a Canadian flag in the background, she expressed how she has discovered stability, organization, and a deeply valued human quality in her new country.

"Every country has its issues, but in terms of human quality, this place is truly remarkable," Sahily noted in her video.

She discussed how many migrants have high expectations of Canada, which can lead to disappointment or boredom for some. However, Sahily believes that life on the island doesn't compare: "After a year or two here, some say, ‘Oh, how boring, I want to go back to where there’s no electricity, no food, no medicine.’”

During her years in Canada, Sahily has experienced only brief interruptions of basic services: “The power has gone out three times, lasting only minutes, not even half an hour. The water has been shut off three or four times, with notices given three days in advance.”

Sahily also addressed the cost of living and food accessibility, asserting that a regular job allows for a dignified life: “Food is available for everyone. Those wanting to eat very well must pay more, but for someone like me, it’s enough. I can eat healthily or poorly if I choose. A regular eight-hour job covers it.”

While she acknowledges that life in Canada might seem quieter for Latinos, she appreciates the order: “Sometimes it’s a bit dull for us Latinos, who love parties, but you can find ways to have fun. The best thing about this country is its organization.”

Sahily concluded her message with gratitude for her achievements since emigrating: “I happily live in Canada, feeling blessed. I’ve achieved here what I couldn’t in my own country, doing much less than I do here.”

Her story sparked hundreds of comments on TikTok, with many agreeing with her positive view of Canada, emphasizing the stability, freedom, and respect for rules.

Numerous comments highlighted that “the most important thing about living outside Cuba is freedom,” while others thanked Sahily for her honesty and sought advice on emigrating or working legally in Canada.

Many echoed that Canada “remains an exemplary country to live in,” despite challenges like the weather, taxes, and language adaptation. Some felt fully integrated after years of residence: “I’ve been here for 17 years and wouldn’t want to leave,” one follower shared.

Sahily’s experience adds to the diverse narratives Cuban migrants share about life in Canada on social media.

Recently, a Cuban woman in Toronto expressed surprise when visiting a restaurant named La Cubana, expecting fellow Cubans behind the counter but being served by Chinese employees. She praised the food’s flavor, noting that “globalization reaches every corner.”

Another young migrant shared the struggles of starting anew in Canada, revealing a five-month wait for his work permit and advising future emigrants to learn the language first.

Additionally, a Cuban woman warned her followers to check purchase receipts after being overcharged at a store, and a Canadian resident reflected on differences with life in Cuba, from endless queues to the punctuality of public transport.

Meanwhile, a young woman celebrating four years in Canada stated she has never considered returning, despite initial hardships: “I’ve worked hard to get ahead, but going back has never crossed my mind.”

The stories of Cuban migrants in Canada, like Sahily's, reveal various facets of emigration: challenges, cultural contrasts, and lessons learned, but also gratitude for residing in a country where personal effort leads to real opportunities and a better quality of life. As power outages, scarcity, and lack of opportunities continue in Cuba, many compatriots like Sahily have found a more stable and dignified life in Canada.