Christian, a 14-year-old from Bayamo, Granma, has not only found a trade in barbering but also a means to support his family. Since the age of 12, he has been cutting hair in a makeshift booth in his neighborhood, offering haircuts and shaves at very affordable prices.
Despite having limited resources, Christian's determination to persevere in the face of Cuba's challenging economic landscape is unwavering. His story gained attention through social media when Eliecer Almenares (@elieceralmenares) shared a touching video highlighting Christian's daily efforts.
Living with his grandfather, aunt, and a younger sister who is seven years old, his family heavily relies on the income he generates. In addition to his barber work, Christian also sells charcoal and yuca to boost his earnings and support his household.
Challenges and Community Support
Christian's situation is marked by a lack of essential barbering tools and frequent power outages that disrupt his ability to work. Almenares emphasized Christian's humility and dedication by showcasing his modest setup, which lacks basic items like clippers, scissors, combs, and other barber supplies.
"This boy is showing the world that with effort, you can move forward. While many waste time, he works hard to help his family," Almenares remarked.
The post also called for solidarity, urging barbers and interested individuals worldwide, particularly from Miami, to donate tools and products to improve Christian's working conditions. The support extends beyond donations, with a plea to Bayamo residents to visit his booth on 22nd Street, corner of 26th of July, in the Ciro Redondo neighborhood, and hire his services as a direct form of assistance.
The Struggle of Cuban Youth
Christian shared that he started cutting hair at 12 and now has a steady client base, including elderly members of his community. He charges 200 pesos for haircuts and 80 pesos for shaves, prices that are remarkably low compared to the current market.
His story is a testament to the hardships faced by many children and teenagers in Cuba, who are compelled to shoulder financial responsibilities at a young age. Yet, it also highlights their resilience and ambition to rise above their circumstances.
On Facebook, Almenares joyfully announced the first donation for the young barber from Bayamo: “First donation for Christian. Thank you to those who are starting to collaborate with our social project ‘Sharing Joys’.” The post was accompanied by a photo of a haircutting kit and combs for the young barber.
Economic Crisis and Youth Labor
One of the most heart-wrenching manifestations of Cuba's deepening economic crisis is the increasing number of stories about children and adolescents being forced to work to help support their families. Last December, a poignant scene unfolded at Havana's International Airport, where a child selling candies ended up in a police car.
That same month, after a call for help was made for a 15-year-old Cuban boy with a tracheotomy who sells pizzas in the streets of Camagüey to earn some money for his home, several people expressed their intention to aid the young man amidst the country's severe economic crisis.
“We can all contribute a small part,” said user Dane Amaya in the Facebook group “Sales by Quantity in Camagüey,” through which the young man's situation was brought to light.
Understanding the Struggles of Youth in Cuba
What challenges does Christian face as a young barber in Cuba?
Christian faces numerous challenges, including a lack of basic barbering tools and frequent power outages that hinder his ability to work.
How can people support Christian and other young workers in Cuba?
People can support Christian by donating barbering tools and supplies or by hiring his services if they are in the area. More broadly, raising awareness and advocating for economic reforms can help support young workers in Cuba.