A little over two years ago, Dariel López Ramos made his way from Cuba to the United States. At the border, he was issued a Form I-220A, and upon his release, he began navigating the challenges and opportunities of a new country.
"I'm an I-220A," Dariel shared on the TikTok channel Genomultiservice (@genomultiservice). "When I arrived, I worked three to four jobs a day until the day I managed to buy a little car. In Cuba, I never had a car, so I was thrilled to keep it sparkling clean."
With his newfound vehicle, he purchased a seat-cleaning machine, sparking the idea for a mobile car wash business. However, resources were tight. Gradually, he saved enough to buy his own equipment. Unable to afford rent for a shop, he adapted a van to offer door-to-door car cleaning services in Tampa.
Expanding Horizons: New Ventures in Tampa
Five months ago, Dariel took another significant step in his entrepreneurial journey, launching a second car wash venture in Tampa. "In addition to washing cars, we now provide repair services and general mechanical work," he proudly announced.
Despite doubts from others who expected him to fail, Dariel has steadily proven them wrong. "People thought I wouldn't make it here, but little by little, I've silenced the naysayers. I'm grateful for what I've accomplished," he expressed.
The Roots of His Determination
Back in Cuba, Dariel worked as a farmer, a demanding job that equipped him with resilience and perseverance. He revealed that there is someone very special who has always been his source of inspiration.
"My mother has inspired me to work hard. She's been everything to me since I can remember. She taught me how to fight and push forward. She's still in Cuba," he shared with deep emotion.
Dariel's story is one of resilience, determination, and the relentless pursuit of a better life, fueled by the lessons learned on the fields of Cuba and the love of his family.