Modern Entrepreneur Profile: Mississauga's Shakera Rowe

In conversation with Shakera Rowe, recipient of the Mississauga Starter Company Plus grant.

1. What does your company provide/do?

OATX Scrubs is a medical apparel brand that delivers high-quality, modern scrubs created by a Registered Nurse with firsthand clinical experience. We provide thoughtfully engineered uniforms that are durable, functional, and styled comfortably for long shifts in healthcare settings.

Our products are made to solve real problems faced by medical professionals, fading fabric, limited mobility, and pockets that don’t support the work we do. OATX Scrubs combines performance, comfort, and style to help healthcare providers feel confident, supported, and seen while doing life-changing work.

2. What inspired you to start your company?

I was inspired by the overwhelming desire to support the healthcare community in a way that goes beyond clinical care. After working long shifts in scrubs that faded quickly, lacked structure, and felt uncomfortable by the end of the day, I realized how much our uniforms affect how we show up to work. We spend more hours in scrubs than in our everyday clothes, yet the quality rarely reflects the importance of the work we do.

As a nurse, I wanted to provide scrubs that truly serve us. Scrubs designed carefully, with lived experience in mind. OATX Scrubs was born out of the belief that healthcare professionals deserve functionality, comfort, and style all in one, because our uniforms should support us in the way we support others.

3. What's been the most impactful lesson you've learned being an entrepreneur?

I am in the early stages of entrepreneurship with OATX Scrubs. From what I have encountered, the most impactful lesson I’ve learned is that progress requires patience and courage at the same time. You can be scared to make the next move and still take it. Often your mind learns to catch up only after you’ve already taken the leap. Growth happens when you push through uncertainty and discomfort. Trusting that every step forward, even the uncomfortable ones, is part of building something meaningful.

4. How do you unwind?

Working long shifts and busy days building OATX Scrubs, I unwind by prioritizing moments where I sink into being quiet and grounded. I enjoy quiet reflection, reading, or listening to music that helps me reset. I also find joy in movement, so

I value walks, light exercise, and boxing to clear my mind and recharge. These moments of rest allow me to return to building my brand with focus, balance, and renewed energy.

5. What succinct advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs?

Comparison is the thief of joy and progress; do not measure the beginning of your journey against someone else’s months or years of experience. Focus on your own lane, take consistent action, learn as you go, and trust that steady progress compounds over time. Take a deep breath and trust yourself enough to know you are one decision away from the life you imagine. It is scary but it will be worth it. Entrepreneurship is about action, persistence, and small wins. Progress comes when you move forward despite fear, trust yourself, and stay committed to your vision.

6. What are your goals for 2026?

My goal for 2026 is to operate OATX Scrubs as a successful medical apparel brand. Introducing our first line of high-quality, modern medical uniforms designed specifically for healthcare professionals. I want to create a brand that not only meets the practical needs of those who wear scrubs every day but also reflects their experiences, challenges, and dedication. In 2026, I aim for OATX Scrubs to grow into a recognized, reliable, and trusted Canadian brand that healthcare workers can depend on for quality, comfort, and style. 

I plan to cultivate meaningful partnerships within the healthcare community and increase brand visibility through collaborations with clinicians, organizations, and influencers who share our values. I also hope to engage directly with healthcare professionals to continually refine our designs and ensure that our products truly support their work. 

Ultimately, my goal is to empower healthcare workers with uniforms that honor their expertise, reflect their value, and allow them to feel confident and comfortable throughout their shift. By building a brand rooted in integrity, quality, and lived experience, I hope to make a meaningful contribution to the healthcare community while establishing OATX Scrubs as a brand that professionals trust and feel proud to wear. 

7. How did the Mississauga Starter Company Plus program help you start or expand your business?

The Mississauga Starter Company PLUS program provided invaluable support as I prepared to launch OATX Scrubs. Through the program, I received mentorship, guidance on business planning, and access to resources that helped me refine my brand, understand the market, and make strategic decisions.

It gave me the confidence and structure needed to move from idea to action, helping me lay the foundation for a business that truly serves healthcare professionals with high-quality, functional, and stylish scrubs. The program was instrumental in turning my vision into a plan I can confidently execute.