A Cuban woman residing in Guyana recently shared a deeply emotional message that has struck a chord with those contemplating leaving the island: cherish every moment with your loved ones before you go, for once you cross the border, you'll find yourself alone.
Xiomi (@xiomaravazquez3261) posted a video on TikTok on July 18, with a brief runtime of just 47 seconds. Despite its brevity, the message resonated powerfully, amassing over 16,400 views, nearly 2,000 likes, and 347 comments in a matter of days.
"If I had to offer advice to anyone in Cuba thinking about migrating, it would be to hug your family tightly, show them love! Do everything you've always wanted to do in your country but couldn't. Be more family-oriented, more friendly, and enjoy all the beautiful things our country has to offer," she stated directly to the camera.
The reason behind this advice was explained with striking simplicity: "because once you step out into the world, you realize you're alone."
She concluded her reflection with a warning that many emigrants identify with: "Cuban, make the most of Cuba because it doesn't come around again. Blessings!"
The video taps into a common experience within the Cuban diaspora: the economic benefits sought through emigration often fail to outweigh the absence of family and loved ones left behind. TikTok has become a space for collective catharsis for the Cuban community abroad, where stories of loneliness, farewells, and nostalgia frequently go viral.
In the video's description, Xiomi added: "And even if you've achieved your goal of moving forward, the nostalgia for Cuba and for your loved ones will always be there."
This message arrives at a time when Cuba is experiencing its largest exodus in recent history. According to official data from the National Office of Statistics and Information (ONEI), more than 250,000 Cubans emigrated in 2024. Independent estimates by demographer Juan Carlos Albizu-Campos suggest that number exceeds 545,000 people.
The population drain has brought Cuba's population below 10 million for the first time in decades. In 2024, only 71,358 births were recorded—the lowest level in 65 years—compared to more than 128,000 deaths.
The United Nations warned this July that Cuba could shrink to 5.6 million inhabitants if the migration trend continues unchecked.
In this context, Xiomi's advice—"make the most of Cuba because it doesn't come around again"—resonates profoundly with those who have already crossed that border and bear the burden of distance.
Insights on Cuban Migration and Its Impacts
Why is Xiomi's message to Cuban emigrants resonating so deeply?
Xiomi's message resonates because it addresses the emotional impact of leaving loved ones and the reality of facing solitude once abroad, reflecting a common sentiment in the Cuban diaspora.
What are the current migration trends in Cuba?
Cuba is experiencing its largest exodus in recent history, with official data indicating over 250,000 emigrants in 2024, though independent estimates suggest the figure exceeds 545,000.
How is the population decline affecting Cuba?
The population decline has led Cuba to fall below 10 million inhabitants for the first time in decades, with births at their lowest in 65 years, posing challenges for the nation's demographic sustainability.