At JOYRide, our journey is as unique as the rides we offer. Today, we’d like to share the story of how our company came to be, introduce you to the visionary behind it all, and explain the mission and vision that drive us forward.
Our Mission
At the heart of everything we do is our mission:
Enhancing community pride and connectivity by providing pedicab and tourism services that spark JOY in an environmentally friendly way.
This mission statement encapsulates our commitment to transportation, fostering a sense of community and environmental responsibility, and bringing joy to everyone we serve.
Meet Rose Tejeda: The Visionary Behind JOYRide
Rose Tejeda, the founder of JOYRide, is a Michigan City native whose diverse background in design and community service laid the foundation for our company’s unique approach.
With over 30 years of experience as an award-winning interior designer, Rose’s career included working with high-profile clients like Michael Jordan and Motorola. She specialized in retail design while also practicing commercial and residential design. In 2005, Rose fed her passion for design by co-creating Chicago’s first Interactive Design Studio, Urban Source.
Yet, while she found success and fulfillment in her design career, her heart resided in Michigan City. She felt called to bring her skillset to the city she loved. In 2012, Rose volunteered for three years with a non-profit in the Dominican Republic, igniting her passion for community service and reconnecting with her roots. This is also where she saw the trikes that would eventually become her passion and the company. Finally, in 2015, she was able to Return to Michigan City, where she was inspired by the positive changes in her hometown and decided to become an active participant in its progress.
Rose knew that it was now her mission to bring joy to her city. Never one to be a passive participant, Rose got to work, volunteering her time across organizations. Rose’s dedication to Michigan City is evident in her extensive community involvement. She served on the Board of Directors for the Michigan City Mainstreet Association from 2017 to 2020 and has been a board member and volunteer docent at the Lubeznik Center for the Arts since 2019. Rose was also an Ambassador for the Michigan City Chamber of Commerce from 2018 to 2020. More recently, she became a Trustee of the Michigan City Public Library and a member of the Michigan City Planning Commission, both roles beginning in 2022. Her community service extends to special projects as well, including contributions to the Celebrating Naomi Anderson Public Sculpture Committee and acting as a liaison to the Hispanic community for Vibrant Communities of La Porte County. Through these diverse roles, Rose has demonstrated her commitment to fostering growth, culture, and inclusivity in Michigan City. Rose knew she wanted to do more in Michigan City, to find a way to bring a needed service and happiness to her beloved community.
The Birth of JOYRide
Rose first saw a trike while living in the Dominican Republic. She remembers it vividly, “During Holy Week, one of the trikes cruised the beach supporting advertising with eye-catcher promotion. I thought to myself, what a cool thing; why aren’t they giving people rides? This would make such a great business in beach communities.”
“During Holy Week, one of the trikes cruised the beach supporting advertising with eye-catcher promotion. I thought to myself, what a cool thing; why aren’t they giving people rides? This would make such a great business in beach communities.” -Rose Tejeda, JOYRide President
From that moment on, Rose began what would be a mountain of careful research. Her research took her overseas to research trikes. At first, she thought that the Caribbean islands would be the right spot to open her business, but life brought her back to Michigan City. Once returning to Michigan City, Rose said, “This was right under my nose. Michigan City is where this business needs to be.”
Inspired by her love for Michigan City and her experience in design and community service, Rose conceived the idea for JOYRide. The company was born from a desire to:
- Promote Michigan City as a great place to live, work, and play
- Provide eco-friendly transportation with pedicabs
- Create joyful, memorable experiences for both residents and visitors
These goals defined Rose’s ambition for JOYRide, to enhance community pride and connectivity while sparking joy in an environmentally friendly way.
Opening in May 2024, JOYRide set out to serve the mission set forth for the community.
Drawing from her diverse background, Rose carefully selected a team that shares her passion for Michigan City and understands our mission. JOYRide’s employees aren’t just drivers; they’re ambassadors, ready to welcome passengers with local insights and a positive attitude that embodies our commitment to joy and community.
Looking to the Future
As we reflect on our beginnings and Rose’s journey, we’re filled with excitement for what’s to come. JOYRide is more than a pedicab service; it’s a continuation of Rose’s commitment to community enhancement and sustainable progress.
Whether you’re taking a JOYRide to a local event, exploring hidden gems, or simply enjoying the scenic views, know that you’re part of a story that began with one woman’s love for her hometown and blossomed into a service dedicated to sharing that joy with others – and potentially, with the entire country.
Thank you for being part of our journey. Here’s to many more joyful rides ahead in Michigan City and beyond!
