Redefining Healthcare Apparel

In 2021, while on maternity leave from her nursing career, Serena Orok found herself facing a familiar challenge among healthcare professionals in Northwestern Ontario: finding modern, comfortable, and affordable scrub uniforms. What began as a frustration soon sparked an idea. Drawing on her clinical experience and entrepreneurial drive, Orok launched LUX Scrubs. This uniform brand, created with the needs of healthcare professionals in mind, was designed for comfort, function, and style because she says those who care for others deserve it.

Orok built her business in Thunder Bay from the ground up, guided by passion, perseverance, and a clear vision. In June of 2024, she joined PARO Centre for Women’s Enterprise, a decision she now says she wishes she had made sooner. “Since becoming a member, I’ve been fortunate to access many of their incredible resources,” she says.

PARO Centre for Women’s Enterprise, based in Thunder Bay, incorporates the Latin word paro in its name, meaning “I am ready”—a fitting reflection of its mission to equip women with the tools and confidence to succeed in business. Through funding from FedNor, PARO supports women entrepreneurs across Northern Ontario with business development services, mentorship, training, and access to capital, especially in rural and remote communities, so that women such as Orok can turn ideas into thriving businesses and build lasting networks of support.

Through PARO, Orok participated in the Elevate program, a 12-week business scale-up initiative that provided her with the tools, insights, and confidence to grow her business strategically. She also received financial support through the BIZGrowth program, which enabled her to attend the “Go for the Greens” trade mission in Orlando, Florida. “The support and preparation I received for this trade mission were invaluable,” she notes. “It opened doors to meet supplier diversity managers and build connections I wouldn’t have otherwise had.”

Beyond training and funding, PARO helped Orok secure a Women’s Enterprise Organizations of Canada loan, which helped her to expand her inventory and meet increasing customer demand. Perhaps just as impactful, she was welcomed into a circle of six women entrepreneurs, who now form a close-knit support network. “We meet monthly and stay connected regularly through messages and calls. Having that circle of like-minded women has been a game-changer.”

With 2025 well underway, Orok credits PARO for helping to lay the foundation for sustained growth. “They’re more than just a resource centre; they’re a team that genuinely cares. They’re always just a phone call or email away, ready to help.”

Now a passionate advocate for women in business, Orok shares her journey openly on social media and in conversations with others, encouraging aspiring business owners to explore the resources available to them. She speaks candidly about PARO and her business because the support has made a meaningful difference in her journey, and she wants others to know that help is available.

For aspiring entrepreneurs, especially women, she offers this advice: “Find your people early. Having a supportive community around you can make all the difference—not just for your business, but for your mindset. Be kind to yourself, and don’t compare your journey to anyone else’s. Every path is different, and yours is worth celebrating.”

From an idea born during maternity leave to a flourishing business with national reach, LUX Scrubs is a testament to what’s possible when purpose meets perseverance—and when women entrepreneurs have the support they need to succeed.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to grow, applying for funding through FedNor or its partners such as PARO can provide the crucial support, connections, and confidence you need to move your business forward. Learn more today about FedNor programs.