A Cuban woman living in the United States has gained viral attention on TikTok after sharing her experience of feeling "misled" when she moved to Kentucky, now spending two months without finding employment. Known as @lachina.2025 on the platform, she explained that a friend persuaded her to relocate to Louisville, and trusting the advice, she embraced the change. "Folks, I came here to Louisville, Kentucky, misled. A friend told me to come, and since I'm not afraid of change, I did," she stated in her video.
She left Miami in search of a more affordable life, but reality did not meet her expectations. "Rent in Miami is extremely expensive. There's no work either. My job paid $15 an hour," she remarked, noting the difficulty of affording rent on her own with that income.
However, the situation in Kentucky hasn't been any better. "I've been here for two months without a job. I've applied at every fair and factory. At Walmart, at two hundred places. Nothing," she lamented. Her story sparked thousands of reactions, igniting a debate between critics and those offering assistance.
Some users suggested seeking jobs as a delivery driver for Uber Eats or Instacart, or applying at Amazon warehouses. Others advised working in daycares, where she could even pursue certifications. A recurring theme among suggestions was the importance of English proficiency, as it significantly widens employment opportunities.
Amidst criticisms regarding her grammar or job expectations, she also received encouragement. Many recommended learning English at home and urged her not to give up. "The quality of life here is much better than in Florida, but language is key," wrote a Cuban woman who has lived in Kentucky for 17 years.
@lachina.2025's experience highlights a common challenge faced by newcomers: the gap between expectations and reality. Many seek new opportunities away from the high costs of cities like Miami but encounter other barriers, such as unemployment, language barriers, and the need to build a support network from scratch.
Challenges and Opportunities for Cuban Migrants in the U.S.
Why did the woman move from Miami to Kentucky?
She moved from Miami to Kentucky seeking a more affordable lifestyle and was encouraged by a friend to make the change.
What challenges did she face in Kentucky?
In Kentucky, she struggled to find employment despite applying at numerous places and faced limitations due to language barriers.
What solutions were suggested to her?
Suggestions included working as a delivery driver, in Amazon warehouses, or in daycares, with an emphasis on learning English.