When life handed Ingrid Murray a series of unimaginable tragedies, she didn’t crumble—she rose. From taking the reins of Prospect Cleaning Service after the sudden loss of her husband to building a thriving empire recognized by the Inc. 5000 list, her journey is a masterclass in resilience, faith, and fierce determination.
Her secret? “Timing,” she says. “But most importantly, moving with a purpose.”
Rising Through Adversity
Prospect Cleaning Service began as a chance venture started by Murray’s late husband. At the time, she knew nothing about the industry, but after exploring potential, she committed fully. “I had no choice but to invest my time and see it through,” she says. “I was driven by the idea of managing my own time and giving people an opportunity to provide for their families whilst creating my version of the American dream.”
That dream would soon become a reality. Under her leadership, the company grew over 789%—earning a coveted spot on the Inc. 5000 list of America’s fastest-growing businesses.
More Than a Businesswoman
Murray’s journey didn’t stop with commercial success. She is also a proud mother and entrepreneur whose family keeps her grounded—and helps to inspire her vision and purpose.
Inspired by her daughter’s abandoned candle project, she launched Shantor’s Mood Candles & Things—a soulful brand with scents named after her children and the traits they embody: Loving Jay, Insightful Will, Calming Kim, and more. The candles reflect the values that carried her through dark times: ambition, dreams, and determination.
Then there’s Elijah’s Oil, her philanthropic venture named after the Biblical story of giving and abundance. Murray had been giving anonymously for years before a surprise community award revealed the depth of her impact—repairing roofs, painting homes, creating “love baskets,” and offering spa treatments for elders in need. When recognized for her work at a surprise award ceremony, “the outpouring of love and the gratitude expressed was so overwhelming,” she recalls. “Seeing the smiles on their faces meant everything to me.”
Leading with Grace
Despite unimaginable loss, Murray chose compassion over bitterness. “All the trauma and hurt I have experienced in my life stems from jealousy, hatred, fear and people’s inability to forgive and love unconditionally,” she reflects. “I chose to do the opposite. To be kind, forgiving, fearless, and loving.”
That same mindset defines her leadership style—rooted in her Jamaican-American heritage. “Our culture is engraved with strength… and food,” she laughs. “We love to have a great time. I celebrate wins, work from losses, and make sure my team feels heard. If I win, they win too.”
And in a male-dominated industry where female CEOs often face skepticism, she holds her own with style, skill, and strength. “That well-dressed sauce garners their attention—then I dominate the transaction,” she jokes, proving that femininity and power can coexist beautifully.
Among all her accolades—including Congressional recognition—she’s especially proud of winning the 2021 NYS Competitive Edge Best Woman-Owned Business award during the pandemic for which she was able to negotiate her first multimillion deal and garnered the respect of agencies from across the state. “We were insignificant, but we created a huge impact. We proved them wrong using a team largely made up of immigrants—Jamaicans and Hispanics. With the political climate moving against the power of minorities at this time, I am a true testament that they need us,” she beamed.
A Message to Caribbean-American Entrepreneurs
As Caribbean-American Heritage Month and Black Business Month approach, Murray offers a powerful call to unity: “They have divided us and put us against each other. America is a land for immigrants. We need to share that winning sauce and help create more multicultural wealth. Let us support each other. We need each other to survive.”
For those dealing with grief, Murray offers heartfelt wisdom. “I don’t have all the answers,” she admits, “I cry, I laugh, I get angry. I speak of [my husband] every day. Take your time. Never feel guilty to find joy or love again. Life doesn’t end with loss—it creates opportunities for new experiences.”
What’s Next?
Personally, Murray shares that she’s preparing for a new chapter. She’s expanding her services and launching another business, and philanthropically, she’s building a scholarship fund in memory of her late husband to continue making a difference at home and abroad.
Murray’s story is not just about business success—it’s about turning pain into purpose, and loss into legacy. Her life is proof that with faith, love, and a fearless heart, anything is possible.
