Leandra Roche embraced her passion for comprehensive hair care by launching High Definition Hair Design Salon and Academy in Merrillville. Using the same program, Noah Miller established Mr. Miller’s Mobile Detailing in Northwest Indiana. Meanwhile, Indiana University Northwest student Kayla Oberholtzer began her photography business. These ventures were part of the efforts from 18 local entrepreneurs recognized for completing IU Northwest’s SEED and Indiana University’s Innovates programs.
Overview of the SEED and IU Innovates Programs
Recently, 10 entrepreneurs successfully finished the Supporting and Empowering Entrepreneurial Development (SEED) program at Indiana University Northwest. This 11-month initiative, in partnership with Notre Dame’s Urban Poverty and Business Initiative, provides business education and mentorship, according to IU Northwest Business Academy Director Jana Szostek. Among those completing the course were Roche, Miller, Naté Billingsley, Jetaun Carr, Christal Jackson, Rob Seals, Tequeya Spann, Elijah Steele, Amanda Tomczak, and Deanna Ware.
Additionally, the IU Innovates program, a semester-long course modeled after the SEED program, aims to support aspiring entrepreneurs among students, faculty, and staff. Recent graduates include Oberholtzer, Julysa Alamo, Chloe Echols-Taylor, Michael Gaines, Olivia Johnson, Michael Ludwig, Veronica Mora, and Amethyst Rios.
Leandra Roche’s Journey into Hair Care
Roche brings three decades of hair styling experience and previously owned A Joyous Look salon. The COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020 prompted her to close that salon temporarily. This break allowed Roche to refine her craft, ultimately leading to her focus on high definition hair care for naturally curly hair. Initially operating from home, Roche soon opened a salon where she specializes in personalized treatments, extensions, braids, and more. She values customized care as every client’s hair needs are unique.
Noah Miller’s Mobile Detailing Endeavor
Noah Miller founded Mr. Miller’s Mobile Detailing in February 2025, officially registering it in July 2025. His mobile business operates from its own vehicle, equipped with necessary tools for car detailing at the customer’s location. Services range from washing to ceramic coating and interior detailing. Miller, who previously worked at Wal-Mart, turned to this venture due to his vehicle experience and the low startup costs. He gained confidence by practicing on personal and friends’ cars before launching formally.
Kayla Oberholtzer’s Photography Business
Oberholtzer, a senior at IUN studying business administration, established Kaymae Photos LLC in October. Her business focuses on portrait photography, tailoring the experience to fulfill each client’s vision. Her interest in photography began in high school, where her yearbook photos earned praise. Oberholtzer aims to capture individuals’ distinct characteristics and tell their stories through photos.
Insights from the Programs
Roche noted the SEED program taught her vital skills for managing business growth, moving beyond survival mode to effective system implementation. She plans to expand her services into cosmetology, informed by what she learned.
Miller highlighted the importance of networking and the structured business knowledge the program provided. He envisions expanding to include additional work vans and crews independent of his direct involvement.
Oberholtzer appreciated the marketing strategies and the supportive community environment of like-minded individuals aiming for success.
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