The Cuban YouTuber Geylis has once again captured the attention of her followers with a video that humorously and sarcastically contrasts the back-to-school experience in Spain versus Cuba.
In her sketch, which has already garnered over 2,600 likes and more than 100 comments in less than a day, Geylis depicts two very different scenarios. On one side, the Spanish mother, played by Geylis, appears to have everything under control: “Aitana, dear, I’ve already bought you the Jordans you asked for, the black ones for going back to school.” The main concern here seems to be what to do with the old Nike sneakers that are “taking up space in the closet” rather than whether uniforms will be available.
Between buying books and planning the next trip to Marbella, this mother seems to live in a world very different from what many know in Cuba. The stark contrast is evident when Geylis switches the scene to a Cuban household, where another mother (now with a headscarf) literally struggles to obtain uniforms and shoes for her daughter. “Mima, I’m not going to struggle anymore... Mayelin’s nephew gave me two doctor’s gowns; I’ll take them to the seamstress to see if she can make at least two shirts, and if not, I’ll make do,” says the desperate Cuban mother, resigned to doing the impossible so her daughter can attend school.
Instead of new Jordans, the sneakers meant for going out become the daily shoes for school, while the ones “Mirtha is sending” are reserved for special occasions.
Geylis’ followers quickly reacted, many identifying with the reality depicted in the video. “That’s how it is in Cuba, the going-out shoes become school shoes, and the new ones are for special occasions”; “This is the ongoing struggle in Cuba”; “You are true to reality”; “Literally, that’s how it is on our island”; “I love your videos, you always reflect the reality of Cuban mothers”; “The best way to show daily life in Cuba”; “What memories, but what a sad reality”; “You are very good, congratulations”; “Haha, the Jordans, what a difference”; “Childhood memories with your videos”; “Back to school in Cuba, a true odyssey”; “Literally, that’s exactly what happens”; “I love the character ‘Mima’”; “Pure talent, Geylis”; “You make us laugh, but also think about how difficult it is there”; “You always make me remember my childhood with your videos,” commented some followers.
This depiction of two vastly different scenarios, not just geographically, evokes laughter but also reflection on the harsh realities many mothers in Cuba face. Unlike their counterparts in Spain, they must struggle daily with shortages and limitations, a sad yet humorous reminder that the back-to-school experience can be vastly different depending on which side of the Atlantic you are on.
Understanding the Back-to-School Contrast Between Spain and Cuba
This section provides answers to common questions about the back-to-school experiences in Spain and Cuba as depicted by YouTuber Geylis.
What is the main difference highlighted in Geylis' video?
Geylis contrasts the ease and luxury of back-to-school preparations in Spain with the struggle and scarcity faced by Cuban families.
How did Geylis' followers react to the video?
Many of Geylis' followers identified with the reality she portrayed, expressing both amusement and sadness at the accurate depiction of life in Cuba.
Why is Geylis' video significant?
The video is significant because it humorously highlights the vast differences in lifestyles and the daily struggles faced by Cuban families, providing a critical look at the impact of shortages and limitations under the country's current regime.