Becoming the Leader She Wished She Had
Daysi Campos Gaytan, owner of Daysi Cleans. Photo by Jennifer Marquez, JEFAS Magazine
By Christina Fernández-Morrow, JEFAS Magazine
“Growing up, I didn’t always see people who looked like me in leadership positions,” recalls Daysi Campos Gaytan. “That made me even more determined to be that example – not just for myself, but for my community.” Motivated by the challenges of entrepreneurship, Campos Gaytan is building a thriving business while empowering other Latinas to strive toward their potential.
Campos Gaytan began Daysi Cleans, her residential and commercial cleaning company in January 2024 with a mission: “to set an example of what’s possible when you push past limits and take on new challenges. I wanted to create a business that empowers others, especially women in my community, to see that they too can achieve their dreams.”
Like many new businesses, she faced some growing pains. Determined to strengthen her skills she looked for resources that would benefit her business. She decided to invest in herself by enrolling in the Latina Leadership Initiative (LLI), a decision that transformed her business approach and built personal confidence.
Finding Sisterhood and Cultural Connection
Through LLI Campos Gaytan learned practical skills like time management, goal setting, and how to build relationships with others. More importantly, she had the opportunity to connect with like-minded Latinas who encouraged her to lean on her cultural assets in times of self-doubt. “One of the biggest lessons I learned from the Latina Leadership Initiative was the power of using my voice. I used to be nervous about public speaking or even expressing myself in group settings,” she notes. “Through the program, I learned how to speak up, be clear, and share my ideas with confidence. Now, I feel much more secure when talking to clients, leading my team, or speaking in professional environments.”
These lessons not only helped her grow more self-assurance, but they also helped her create clearer connections between her Latinidad and her business goals. “Our culture emphasizes overcoming challenges with strength and perseverance, which has helped me face the obstacles of entrepreneurship and stay motivated.” This realization became a catalyst for creating systems in her personal life and business that help keep her balanced and focused.
Balance While Building a Business
The program also taught Campos Gaytan the importance of self-care. This was a test of balance as she juggled her business with the demands of the ten-week commitment and community service project required to complete LLI successfully. “What helped me was setting boundaries and giving myself time to rest, go for a walk, take a break from my phone, and spend time with family. [LLI] reminded me I wasn’t alone and that it’s okay to take care of myself, too,” she reflects.
Her family became critical to her success stepping up to help her balance business demands with program requirements. Their support energized Campos Gaytan and reinforced her commitment to both endeavors.
Daysi Campos Gaytan, owner of Daysi Cleans. Photo by Jennifer Marquez, JEFAS Magazine
Moving Forward with Confidence
As she reflects on her progress, she feels proud of how far she has come as a person and entrepreneur. “I’ve built a strong, loyal client base and earned the trust of my community. I’ve also become more confident in my leadership and business skills,” she says. But she’s not done setting growth goals. Her next challenge is expanding her business while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. “Today, the biggest challenge is continuing to scale the business while maintaining the quality that my clients have come to expect while balancing everything with personal responsibilities.” If her dedication to self-improvement and leadership development thus far is any indication, Campos Gaytan is set to make a lasting impact within her industry, her community, and to serve as a role model to Latinas looking for entrepreneurial examples. Her journey from self-doubt to confident leader demonstrates what happens when determination meets opportunity, and culture becomes a competitive advantage.
