Los Datway, a Cuban dance troupe, has captured the hearts of many with their infectious energy and mesmerizing choreography. Despite the challenges they face due to limited internet access and restrictions on digital platforms in Cuba, their popularity continues to grow both locally and internationally.
The group's journey began in 2016 when Darién “Chaiky” López recruited friends to practice dance moves in their neighborhood. Their commitment and passion for their craft led them to gain a substantial following on Instagram, despite the obstacles they face in Cuba. With over 40,000 followers and international media coverage, Los Datway has become a sensation in the dance community.
However, the lack of access to online payment services like PayPal and Stripe, as well as restrictions on Instagram and YouTube monetization features in Cuba, make it challenging for the group to monetize their content directly. This has forced them to seek alternate ways to generate income, such as partnering with local shops and promoting products in their videos.
Despite these challenges, Los Datway remains determined to share their talent with the world. They have found creative solutions to work around the limitations they face, such as downloading pirated music to practice their routines and creating their own remixes to avoid copyright restrictions.
The group's perseverance and dedication to their craft have not gone unnoticed, and their popularity continues to soar. If social media platforms were to lift restrictions for users in Cuba, Los Datway believes their reach and impact would grow exponentially, paving the way for even greater success in the future.