Empress Cierra Wilson is a mother, entrepreneur, healer, and the heart behind Na’ava Janitorial & Cleaning Services LLC. Her journey didn’t begin in a boardroom or with a big investment. It started in upstate New York, in a house with over six children, where survival was the goal and love had to stretch far. She lived in both ghettos and decent neighborhoods, but no matter where they were, they made ends meet however they had to. She watched her mother become a single mom, holding it all together with very little support. Seeing her struggle lit something inside of her. She knew she had to do something different.
Even as a young girl, Wilson felt the urgency. She knew deep down they had to own things—run things. She didn’t want to repeat cycles; She wanted to break them. She wanted to help her mother, and more than that, wanted to create the life she knew she deserved. Because what she was seeing around her—that wasn’t it. As a single mother herself now, she’s faced her own share of hard times. From choosing between gas or groceries to rebuilding her life from scratch, she’s walked through storms. But she’s never stopped building.
What started as a way to survive became a business rooted in purpose, healing, and transformation. Now, through her cleaning company, coaching, herbal healing, and programs, Wilson shows others how to take their pain and turn it into power. Her mission is simple: to remind people that even the hardest beginnings can still birth something beautiful.
Takeaways:
One thing I’d like to leave with the readers is this: while people often say it’s best to stick to one thing, I’ve learned that sometimes your gifts will show up in more than one way—and that’s okay. I’ve had side hobbies turn into real-life dreams, like co-authoring The Butterfly Transformation with my son. It’s a reminder that even when the world says “focus,” your heart might be pulling you to create, build, and explore—and if it’s meant for you, it’ll flourish.
Yes, it can be overwhelming with so much knowledge and opportunity at our fingertips, but I’m living proof that it’s possible to wear many hats: author, herbalist, consultant, speaker, life development expert—and that’s just the beginning. I wouldn’t say I’d change anything, because I’m still learning and loving every step of this journey. Growth doesn’t always look like a straight line, but it sure makes for a beautiful story.
“I was never meant to be anyone’s slave. I was born from royalty.” – Empress Cierra Wilson
Hello, I’m Empress Cierra Wilson—a proud single mother, entrepreneur, healer, certified life coach, speaker, and founder of Na’ava Janitorial & Cleaning Services LLC. On this journey, I wanted something different. I wanted ownership. I wanted impact. I wanted freedom—not just for me, but for my family and the generations to come.
Life comes with ups and downs, but you can’t sit in it. I’ve had seasons where I felt like I was at my breaking point—battling doubt, financial hardship, loneliness, and uncertainty. But I kept reminding myself: This isn’t just about me. I have a son who counts on me. I have a vision that’s just around the corner. And I know there are people in the world who need what I carry. What keeps me going is that deeper “why.” Every day I wake up, I choose to keep going, not because it’s easy, but because I know I’m called to serve. I’ve built everything from scratch—my cleaning business, my herbal products, my workshops, my brand—while still navigating motherhood and growth. And no, I didn’t know it all when I started. But I believed, I prayed, I studied, and I asked for help when I needed it. I became a student of life and allowed the lessons to make me stronger.
Some of my proudest achievements include graduating from the Les Brown Speaker Training Academy, investing thousands into coaching programs just to become a better coach and leader for others, and co-authoring The Butterfly Transformation—a children’s book written alongside my son, teaching the beauty of growth, change, and resilience. My story is about not giving up. It’s about choosing to become the hero I once hoped would save me. Everything I do—from cleaning homes to coaching women, from speaking to creating wellness products—is driven by one purpose: to help people transform their lives. And to every woman listening: whatever season you’re in, know that you are not alone—and you are not stuck. You can build, rise, heal, and lead. I’m living proof of that.
I was 23 when I found out I was pregnant with my son, and by 24, I became a mother. I had plans of building a life with his father, but life had other plans for me. He moved to another state, leaving me to navigate motherhood alone. That was the beginning of my entrepreneurial journey.
Before getting pregnant, I was thriving—working multiple jobs, living in my own apartment, and driving my own car. But once I became pregnant, things slowly spiraled downhill. My lease was up for my apartment, and my car broke down. I found myself bouncing between friends’ and family members’ homes for two years and living in hotels. It felt like my life had hit rock bottom, and there were many nights I cried myself to sleep, unsure of how I’d rebuild.
I leaned heavily on my faith and spent countless nights reading my Bible, praying for clarity and strength. I knew I had to figure out my life, not just for me but for my son.
Working at Popeyes for $7.75 an hour, I told customers, “One day, I’m going to start my own cleaning company.” I meant it, and my son became my greatest motivation. Despite not knowing much about business, I created business cards, got an EIN, and started wearing my best clothes to meet clients, dressing as if I was interviewing for a corporate job.
At first, I didn’t have professional supplies or uniforms—just a black shirt and blue jeans. But I worked hard, stayed up late creating contracts and templates, and networked with other business owners to learn as much as I could. Slowly but surely, Na’ava Janitorial & Cleaning Service was born.
In the beginning, I worked alone, cleaning homes and commercial spaces, sometimes laughing at how little I charged. But I learned quickly. Over time, as demand grew, I began hiring single mothers and individuals from low-income families who needed work, just like I once did.
Every morning, I’d pass out flyers, sometimes with my son in tow, determined to build something lasting. Within two and a half years, I expanded the company, hired a team of four, and later added supervisors to help manage operations. At its peak, Na’ava Janitorial & Cleaning Service LLC generated over $80,000 annually and employed over 60 people. I became confident in my ability to lead, grow, and manage a business.
But I didn’t stop there. I realized that business success wasn’t just about money—it was about personal growth. I took business courses, learned how to manage finances, and developed my leadership skills. I even went back to school and earned certifications in various fields to expand my opportunities.
Over the past nine years, I’ve achieved milestones that once felt impossible. I became the first in my family to travel the world, the first to write and publish books, and the first to buy my own home. I co-wrote The Butterfly Transformation with my son, and together we generated over $8,000 in eight months. The book uses the metaphor of a butterfly’s life cycle to inspire others to overcome challenges and embrace personal growth.
I also became a Life Development Expert, helping others in their spirituality, transforming their personal lives, starting businesses, and achieving their goals.
Today, I’m not just a business owner—I’m a speaker, author, and coach, committed to empowering others. My story is proof that even when life feels like it’s falling apart, faith, determination, and resilience can lead to unimaginable growth. What started as a young mother trying to find her way has blossomed into an empire. And this is just the beginning.
We’d love to learn more about your entrepreneurial journey and Na’ava Janitorial & Cleaning Services.
My entrepreneurial journey has been anything but smooth; it has been a path fraught with challenges and personal sacrifices. From the outset, I faced skepticism from my own family. Many thought I was “crazy” for dreaming big, as they had never witnessed dreams materialize into reality. Their doubts often manifested as ridicule, leaving me feeling isolated and misunderstood. Sharing my plans was met with blank stares or dismissive comments, making it clear that my vision was mine alone to uphold.
Being the “black sheep” of the family, I was accustomed to standing apart. My mother affectionately called me her “special child,” a term I grew to embrace, recognizing that being different was, in itself, a unique strength. She often remarked on my resilience, suggesting that her toughness on me was a testament to her belief in my strength. Unlike my siblings, who received more direct support from our parents, I was often left to navigate life’s challenges independently. Raised primarily by my grandmother, a deeply spiritual woman, I see now how much of her strength and perspective have shaped me.
Throughout my journey, it often felt as though the world was against me. However, I learned to transform adversity into motivation. After moments of despair, I would allow myself to grieve, then rise with renewed determination. This cycle of release and resilience became my driving force.
In the face of familial skepticism, I found strength within. I realized that the lack of external validation made me more self-reliant and determined. This internal fortitude not only propelled my business forward but also fostered personal growth. Over time, as my successes became evident, some family members began to acknowledge and support my endeavors. Yet, the initial lack of belief served as a powerful lesson: true validation comes from within, and one’s worth isn’t determined by others’ perceptions.
Reflecting on my journey, I recognize that the struggles I faced were instrumental in shaping the person I am today. Each challenge taught me resilience, each doubt strengthened my resolve, and each setback fueled my ambition. While the road was arduous, it led me to a place of empowerment and purpose, underscoring the belief that adversity can be a powerful catalyst for growth.
I love the way you allowed your story to fuel your passion instead of defeating you. With all of these challenges, what led you to go into business for yourself?
Whew—where do I begin? Honestly, I always felt like I wasn’t built to work for people—I was built to work with people. But every job I had seemed to remind me otherwise. And for some reason, if a woman was in charge? Oh, I knew it wouldn’t last long. I never fully understood why the energy never aligned, but I knew I didn’t feel seen or valued.
The pay?
Always stuck. And let’s be real—if you started making “too much,” suddenly your hours got cut or things started feeling a little… funny. Don’t even get me started on taxes when you’re considered “low class”—you work all week just to blink at your paycheck like, who stole my joy?
After a while, I realized something had to change.
I knew I had skills, creativity, and drive—I just needed my own lane. So I decided to build something I couldn’t be fired from. I became my own boss, not because it was trendy, but because survival turned into strategy. And honestly? Becoming an entrepreneur has been one of the most freeing and empowering decisions I’ve ever made. I can walk in my purpose, serve others, and show my son what it looks like to own your future.
How did you market your business when it was brand new?
When I first started, I didn’t have a marketing budget—I had hustle, word of mouth, and a whole lot of faith. I marketed the old-school way: passing out flyers, texting everyone I knew, knocking on doors, and making sure I showed up professionally every single time so people wanted to tell others about me. I leaned on social media, too—nothing fancy, just posting my 7
before-and-after cleaning pictures, sharing testimonials, and reminding people that I was consistent, reliable, and thorough. I made sure my work spoke for itself. Every happy client became a walking advertisement for Na’ava. And let me be honest—I was the marketer, the cleaner, the scheduler, and the customer service rep all in one. I wore every hat, and I wore it proudly. That groundwork helped build a solid reputation that I still stand on today.
What is a typical day like for you?
A typical day in my world? Whew—let’s just say I wear every hat and never take one off! Whether it’s hot, cold, or pouring rain, I’m moving—literally and mentally. I could be walking from job to job, checking in on properties, making cold calls in between, and still figuring out how to design my next flyer or post to market my business. I start my mornings by reading, checking messages, confirming appointments, and making sure any upcoming jobs are covered—which also means calling, texting, and sometimes chasing down reliable workers.
Keeping a good team is a full-time job by itself! I’m constantly recruiting for both today’s tasks and tomorrow’s opportunities, because in this industry, it’s not just about the work—it’s about the people you can count on to show up and do it right.
I juggle scheduling, payroll, and follow-ups with clients, all while thinking ahead: What do I need to promote next? Where can I network today? I’ve walked into events exhausted but still showed up smiling, because you never know who you’ll meet or who’s watching. There are days I’m cleaning, quoting, marketing, managing, and motivating—back to back. But I wouldn’t trade it for anything. This is my business, my name, my legacy. And even when it’s overwhelming, I remind myself: I’m building something no one can take from me.
What are the three most important habits to be a successful entrepreneur?
1. Consistency is everything. You can’t just show up when it’s easy or when you feel like it. You have to be committed to showing up daily—in your work, your mindset, and your follow-through. Success doesn’t come overnight, but consistency makes sure you’re ready when it does.
2. Know yourself so you can push yourself. You have to understand your own triggers, strengths, weaknesses, and limits. As an entrepreneur, no one’s standing over you telling you what to do. You have to be your own coach, your own motivator, and sometimes your own therapist. When you know you, you can better manage the pressure and keep going—even when it’s tough.
3. Build a routine that supports your goals. It’s not just about being busy—it’s about being focused. Form habits and systems around what you do so your day works for you, not against you. A good routine gives you clarity, energy, and space to grow. It helps turn chaos into structure.
At the end of the day, being successful isn’t about being perfect—it’s about staying grounded, showing up with intention, and being willing to grow through every phase.
If you had one piece of advice for someone just starting out, what would it be? Love your haters—they’re part of the process. Nothing in life is perfect, and the challenges (including the people who doubt you) are there to help build your strength and resilience. Don’t worry about how many times you get it wrong—what matters is that you keep showing up. You’ll be great at something one day, and it will serve a bigger purpose than you can even imagine right now. Be proud that you started something on your own. That alone is powerful. You are a co-creator of your own world, and the journey is spiritual just as much as it is physical. Heaven has many layers—so be prepared to climb through all types of heights, shapes, and seasons. Keep your faith strong and your vision clear. Every step is preparing you for the top.
Yes, our company proudly serves the areas of Atlanta, Snellville, and DeKalb County, just to name a few. Giving back to the community is at the heart of what we do. Through our cleaning services, we often extend a helping hand to those in need—whether it’s offering discounted or even free cleanings to families facing hardship, or showing up for single parents, elders, or individuals who just need a fresh space to breathe and reset. Beyond our services, we also donate essentials like food, clothes, and hygiene products to families in need. We understand that sometimes people don’t just need a clean home—they need hope and support. That’s why I also provide free consultations for parents and young adults, especially those who need guidance, encouragement, or direction in life.I believe that success isn’t just about business—it’s about building people up and helping others feel seen, supported, and cared for.
Every entrepreneur has a goal and a problem they’re trying to solve. What was the inspiration that started your journey?
My inspiration came from a deep desire to break cycles and build generational wealth—not just for myself, but for those coming after me. I’ve always wanted to live with freedom and help families thrive, not just survive. I know I can’t change everything in this world, but I can change the things I have the power to—and that’s exactly what I’m doing, one step and one family at a time.
How do you prioritize self-care and well-being while managing the demands of your business?
I prioritize self-care by making sure to take intentional time for myself—whether that means a relaxing spa day, pampering myself with getting my hair, nails, and feet done, or taking a peaceful vacation when I can. I love reconnecting with nature, so I’ll often visit a park, find a quiet trail, or even immerse myself in water—anything that brings me back to center.I view my business as a fun, evolving journey—an adventure where I get to see just how far I can go, what I can create, and who I can impact. When things get overwhelming, I remind myself that I chose this path not just for success, but for the freedom to enjoy the ride. I stop, breathe, reflect, and remember: this is meant to be a joyful journey. So I refocus, release the pressure, and continue doing my best—with peace, purpose, and passion leading the way.
What would you consider your biggest accomplishment and why?
My biggest accomplishment is being able to travel, grow, and explore life with my son by my side. Watching him witness my journey—whether it’s graduating from various schools, earning certificates, or stepping into rooms I once never imagined I’d be invited into—means everything to me. The way he looks at me and says, “Mom, you’re doing good. You’re amazing,” confirms that I’m on the right path. To me, it’s not just about personal achievements—it’s about breaking generational curses. I’m showing my son a different side of life, one filled with purpose, growth, and resilience. That alone is a powerful accomplishment. And when I work with my clients—whether it’s cleaning their space or offering guidance—and see the joy and relief on their faces, that also counts as a major win. Because I know I’ve helped make someone’s life just a little lighter. That’s what fuels me. I’m grateful to still be here, still succeeding, and still creating impact in every way I can.
We all face challenges. Looking back, what have been some of the biggest challenges and obstacles you’ve had to navigate?
Whew—where do I begin? One of the biggest challenges for me was just learning how to run a real, legitimate business from scratch. I started with no professional uniforms, no real funding, and little knowledge about finances, proposals, or even how to form an LLC properly. I had to teach myself how to create business documents, send invoices and estimates, write proposals, and figure out who to hire for what roles. Finding reliable workers wasn’t easy, and understanding how loans, grants, and business plans worked was. That was a whole other learning curve. And trust me—I’m still learning. I haven’t even scratched the surface when it comes to marketing, which is a beast of its own. The truth is, the business isn’t exactly where I want it to be yet, but I remind myself: it took over 30 years for me to reach my 30s. So why would I expect my business to be perfect overnight? I’m not stopping. Not now. I’ll keep exploring my options, taking the hits, learning the lessons, and smiling through it all. Because this journey is mine—and I’m owning every part of it.
What challenges have you faced in the workplace, especially in your experience in male-dominated environments?
One moment that really stuck with me was when I approached a potential client—an older businessman—while out promoting my cleaning services. I had just finished an early morning job and felt inspired to go out and introduce my business to local companies. I was excited and proud, doing it all on my own. But instead of showing interest, he walked me through his entire store only to say, “You look like you need money,” and told me to come back if I ever wanted to make products. It felt like a brush-off, and I won’t lie—it stung. But despite moments like that, I’ve actually experienced a lot of support from men in business. In many cases, they’ve moved faster to help me than some women, who might hesitate or delay. I’m truly grateful to anyone—man or woman—who believes in me, supports my vision, and plays a role in helping me grow. Every challenge has taught me something, and every act of support has reminded me that I’m not walking this path alone.
Can you share some of the most important lessons you’ve learned from your successes and failures in business?
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is to stay focused on your goals and see them through. It’s easy to get distracted by so many new ideas, especially when you’re multi-talented or unsure if your first business is “the one.” In the past, I took breaks to explore different studies because I wasn’t sure if cleaning would be my only lane. But now, I’ve committed to seeing how far I can grow this business before branching out—and that clarity has made a big difference. Another lesson is that consistency is everything. You don’t have to come off overly polished or perfect. In fact, making mistakes reminds you that you’re human—not a machine. You can always fix the mix-ups along the way. I’ve also learned that fear and uncertainty are signs of growth. Every time I step into a new space that feels unfamiliar or intimidating, I remind myself to smile, embrace the moment, and give it my best. That mindset has taken me far. I wouldn’t say I’ve failed in business, but I’ve definitely had to pivot, learn, and evolve—and I’m still growing every day.
What initiatives or actions do you believe are crucial for fostering a more supportive and inclusive business environment for women?
To foster a truly supportive and inclusive business environment for women, we need to start by creating more spaces where women feel safe, seen, and supported. That means access to mentorship programs, free or affordable business workshops, and networking opportunities that are designed with women in mind—not just in name, but in action. It’s also important that experienced women entrepreneurs genuinely reach back and uplift younger or newer women who are still learning. I would love to see more women helping each other wholeheartedly, without ego or competition—just pure guidance and sisterhood. Sometimes, the support we need isn’t funding or followers, but simply a kind word, a shared contact, or someone saying, “I’ve been there too—keep going.”Another big part of the solution is normalizing vulnerability in business. Too often, women feel they have to appear perfect to be respected. We should be encouraging honesty, collaboration, and growth—even when it comes with mistakes. That’s how we create an environment where women don’t just survive in business—they thrive.
What advice would you give to a new business owner? Or to your younger self? I would tell my younger self: All you truly have is you—you are the foundation, thecornerstone. Keep your faith strong and always seek guidance, both spiritually and from those who’ve walked the path before you. Don’t stop. Don’t get sidetracked. If you mess up, don’t panic—research it, fix it, and learn from it. If it takes 15 to 20 years to build what you dream of, that’s okay. Look at how much knowledge, growth, and strength you’ll gain in the process. Stay consistent with your vision, because no one can see what you see or want what you want the way you do. You’re the vessel—and as long as you keep pouring into yourself, you’ll reach your destination.
How do you set your business apart from others in your industry?
Na’ava Janitorial & Cleaning is built on more than just cleaning—it’s built on care, connection, and community. We service commercial and residential properties. We also offer budget-friendly options specifically designed for the elderly and individuals on fixed incomes, because we believe cleanliness and comfort should be accessible to everyone. Our loyalty cards reward our MVP clients with discounts and exclusive offers, showing appreciation to those who continue to trust us. What truly sets us apart is our commitment to giving back however we can. Every business I involve myself in—whether it’s cleaning, wellness, or empowerment—is rooted in service. I was raised to do for others, not just because it’s good business, but because it’s who I am. Even without a business, Empress still serves. You never know who someone may be or what they’re going through, and a simple act of kindness could change everything. Na’ava Janitorial isn’t just here to clean spaces—it’s here to leave behind light, uplift others, and build real relationships. That’s the difference, and that’s what we teach our staff.
What are the three most important habits to be a successful high performer or leader?
Consistency Over Perfection Success doesn’t come from doing one thing right once—it comes from showing up every day. High performers stick to their vision even when they’re tired, uncertain, or afraid. They know that consistency builds trust, sharpens skills, and moves the needle forward over time. Walk into who you want to be and do it well. Lead With Heart and Integrity. True leaders serve first. They care about people, not just profits. Whether it’s showing compassion in your business decisions or giving back to your community, leading with heart makes your leadership unforgettable and deeply respected.“You don’t have to lose your soul to win—be real, be powerful.” Keep Learning, Keep Growing. A high performer knows that growth never ends. Whether you’re reading, researching, networking, or just learning through your failures—stay open. Stay teachable. Staying curious makes you unstoppable.“Every lesson, even in failure, is fuel for your next level.”
What social media platform is the best for business growth and why?
Na’ava Janitorial is present on most major social media platforms. I must say TikTok is my favorite. It allows you to create quick, engaging videos, and the moment you post, you’re instantly visible to a wide audience. It’s a powerful way to get your message out fast and connect with people in real-time. Facebook is also an incredible tool for business growth, especially for building community and trust. While I think Facebook could benefit from upgrading its video tools, it still holds value—especially for staying connected with local audiences and creating long-term relationships.
Instagram is great for getting the information out as well. There’s no complaining; the platforms help a great deal. But what I truly love about social media is reaching more people with a message—not just the perfect videos or high view counts, but the ability to genuinely connect with people, share your services, and fulfill real needs from the heart. To me, it’s about how you serve, not just how you show up online. And above all, I’ll always say this:
“Word of mouth is the most powerful platform there is.”
When people speak from real experience, that trust travels further than any algorithm ever could.
At the end of the day, my journey has always been rooted in purpose—whether I’m cleaning a home, mentoring someone, or just being a listening ear. I don’t do this just for business; I do it because I truly care about the people I serve. Every challenge I’ve faced was just another opportunity to rise, and every success is a reminder that staying true to yourself will always pay off. I’m not here to be perfect—I’m here to be real, to inspire, and to uplift. If you’d like to follow my journey or learn more about my services, feel free to connect with me on social media @NaavaJancleaning7 or Na’ava Janitorial & Cleaning Service LLC for cleaning or email me directly at contact@naavacleaningservices.com . The Butterfly Transformation is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Walmart, and more. My podcast is True Healing Success on YouTube. Thank you for taking the time to get to know me. Let’s continue to build, grow, and give back—together.
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