From selling goods on the streets and trimming hedges to purchasing his own home, starting a business, and earning income through TikTok, Ernesto Pérez Rodríguez shared on Monday the 13-year journey he believes was necessary to achieve success from Cuba.
In a post on Facebook, the young man recounted how he began working at just 15 years old, never feeling embarrassed to take on any job that helped him move forward.
"Since I was 15, I have been fighting for my dreams. If I had to sell on the street, I did it. If I had to trim hedges, I did it, waking up early, working Sundays, and never feeling ashamed because I was taught from a young age that work dignifies a person," he shared.
Pérez explained that he learned this work ethic from his grandmother, whom he remembers riding a bicycle with "a box full of homemade food" to provide delivery services under the sun to make a living.
Significant milestones, according to his account, arrived years later. At 24, he purchased a modest home, and his business began to thrive.
Two years later, he got involved in humanitarian efforts and began gaining a presence on social media.
At 28, he experienced a pivotal change that made a significant economic impact: monetizing his social media platforms.
"It wasn't until a couple of months ago, at 28, that the monetization of my social media changed my life," Pérez wrote.
Among the shared images, Pérez Rodríguez included a screenshot of his TikTok balance, showing an estimated amount of $948.64.
Reflecting on his journey, Pérez summarized it with a single phrase: "It took me 13 years to find success."
His message was particularly aimed at other young Cubans striving to forge their own paths amid economic hardships.
"Life demands sacrifice; you have to work hard. Don't be ashamed to start something new because, sooner or later, God opens the door to blessings," he asserted.
The post garnered numerous responses acknowledging his achievements. "Life hasn't been easy for you, but God has been preparing you for His purpose since day one," one user commented, highlighting the assistance Pérez Rodríguez has offered to those in need.
Another comment praised his perseverance: "When life challenges us, and necessity follows, our fighting spirit and work drive us."
There were also messages directed at the younger generation. "Hopefully, today's youth will fight, sacrifice, and work with dignity just like you did. No job, whatever it may be, is dishonorable. You are a role model," expressed another person.
"Great advice for today's youth; success only comes through hard work," noted one user, while another summarized: "There is no triumph without sacrifice, and you deserve it."
Pérez Rodríguez's compassionate side is not new either.
In May 2025, he led a campaign that successfully raised funds to buy a home for Adriana, a young girl with severe cerebral palsy and chronic malnutrition.
Similarly, in March of this year, he once again mobilized his social media followers to seek assistance for a seven-year-old boy with hydrocephalus whose family was in severe economic distress.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ernesto Pérez Rodríguez's Path to Success
How did Ernesto Pérez Rodríguez start his career?
Ernesto Pérez Rodríguez began working at the age of 15, engaging in various jobs such as selling on the street and trimming hedges to support himself.
What was a turning point in Pérez Rodríguez's financial success?
The turning point in his financial success came when he began monetizing his social media platforms at the age of 28, which significantly improved his economic situation.
What kind of humanitarian efforts has Pérez Rodríguez been involved in?
Pérez Rodríguez has been involved in raising funds for individuals in need, such as buying a home for a young girl with severe health issues and helping a boy with hydrocephalus.