An Ecuadorian content creator has ignited a heated online discussion after describing Toronto as a 'third-world country' in a widely shared video. Alejandro Vivar, an entrepreneur and social media influencer, posted a 47-second clip of his stroll through downtown Toronto, expressing shock at what he encountered.
Video Sparks Controversy
In the video, Vivar pans the camera over sidewalks littered with garbage and cigarette butts, then focuses on a homeless person sleeping on the ground. 'Look, look, you don't see this in Ecuador,' he says. Upon reaching Yonge and Dundas Streets, he declares, 'This is the flagship of Toronto, and there's literally garbage, crackheads, crazy people, people talking to themselves, fetty heads (slang for fentanyl addicts). Bro, this is a third-world country. Coming from Quito, Quito is way more civilized.' He concludes by calling Toronto 'a f***ing mess.'
Background of the Influencer
Vivar, who rents out real estate in Ecuador according to his Instagram bio, has a history with Toronto. He previously survived being shot five times while leading a bootcamp at Christie Pits and spent 10 years in prison. After his release, he left North America and now promotes Ecuador as a better alternative. In recent posts, he has criticized Canada for unaffordable housing, crushing taxes, and declining quality of life, urging followers to consider expat life in Ecuador.
However, in another post, Vivar listed Toronto as one of four cities 'every man needs' to live in, calling it his 'big city' where he comes to 'cash cheques' and 'make money.' He visits four times a year for about a week each time, dining out, shopping, and having meetings before returning to Ecuador.
Mixed Reactions from Torontonians
The video garnered thousands of comments. Some agreed with Vivar, noting Canada's decline over the past decade and high taxes. Others defended Toronto, pointing out that every major city has dirt and grime. One commenter mocked, 'Bro saw some cigarette butts and a bum on the sidewalk and calls it third world.' Another added sarcastically, 'Nice rage bait. Sorry all that gum on the sidewalk frightened you. What a big scary city.'
The viral clip has sparked broader discussions about urban issues in Canadian cities, including homelessness and drug addiction, as well as the perception of Canada abroad.
