Laura Olsen's Story

Went to Cuba in May (2025) for the 32nd Romerías de Mayo Festival, which is basically a giant street party that took place in Holguín, Cuba. We participated in a parade in Holguín as part of the celebration of the Romerías de Mayo festival. The people here are so kind and were excited to see us and talk to us. I was also reminded, seeing the people in Holguín, how important it is to be generous because these folks don’t have a lot, and many of them live in poverty. This was very different from my experience living in Nova Scotia. Seeing this while being aware that the rate of homelessness is going up in Canada was eye-opening. However, it does make me feel grateful for what I have at home.

Got to play and perform with students from Cuba and other parts of the world. Later in the week, I went to a Holguín high school for a music workshop where Cuban students played for us. The singers didn’t even need microphones. They were only in high school and are already so talented. From my experience, I took away that people in Cuba are persistent, make the most of what they have, and have such a willingness to learn that I had never seen before. I heard music from so many Cuban musicians - it was demonstrated that you don’t need amps, mics, or crazy equipment to put on a good show. I feel inspired by the beautiful culture and life in Cuba.

Being in Cuba for only one week had already taught me much about Cuba’s unique and complicated history as a nation, and, on a global scale, I gained a much better understanding of how Cuba relies on its tourism industry. Cuba has unfortunately suffered, like many nations, since COVID due to its impact on tourism. Global history and politics have also contributed to the lack of access to essential resources and commodities in many areas of the country, particularly in rural regions and those outside popular tourist destinations. Since the Industrial Revolution, decades later, we can see the effect of the abandonment of Cuba by many nations, including neighbors and world leaders like the US. It is thus important to recognize the vital partnership and connection between Canada and Cuba, as well as other nations that strive to uphold the well-being of all communities alike. Further, when it comes to media and access to information, it is crucial for those of us who are privileged to have a voice and communication channels to use them to engage with our greater global community. This enables others to share their stories.

The overall experience of travelling to Cuba contributed to my knowledge and skills in the following areas: 1) past and current global affairs, 2) language and communications, and 3) navigating the music industry at the international level. These things will allow me to continue to develop my professionalism as a musician and to build and strengthen my domestic and international networks (including fellow musicians and collaborators, venues, promoters, fans, etc.). On a personal level, I understand more how lucky I am to have the privileges that I have in my life. I intend to apply this understanding to how I conduct myself and to how I engage with others in all aspects of my life, because no one is more important or worthy than the rest.