Teen Micah Katon builds car detailing business while at school

AT just 16, Micah Katon is juggling Year 12 studies with running her own car detailing business.

What began last December with cleaning cars for neighbours, friends and family has grown into a business with regular customers.

“From that point, I was like, ‘What if I turned this into a business?’” Micah said.

“I was really nervous at the time.”

She now fits ‘Polished by Micah’ customers around school, gym and study commitments, with weekends generally fully booked.

However, she quickly discovered that running a business involved more than just cleaning cars.

“Starting a business is actually about managing the business,” she said.

Micah handles bookings, advertising, customer inquiries and the purchase of supplies.

One early lesson came when she spent too much of her earnings instead of putting money aside for supplies.

She now uses a spreadsheet to track her finances and reinvest in the business.

Being young and female in a largely male industry has also brought challenges, with some customers initially underestimating her abilities.

However, seeing the finished result has often changed opinions.

Her mum and stepdad have played an important role, driving her to jobs and helping purchase supplies.

Friends and family have also helped spread the word.

“It was such a big support to have them help me out,” Micah said.

The experience has changed the young entrepreneur’s plans for the future.

Previously considering a career in the police, she now hopes to expand Polished by Micah and eventually establish other businesses.

Micah encourages other young people considering starting a business to give it a go.

“Just find what you’re passionate about and build your skills,” she said.

“Explore different opportunities out there while you’re young.”

By Althea GUINSBERG