Black History Month Spotlight: Viviane Yimga Ngassam RN, BSN, Inovativ Scrubs
Thank you to Viviane Timga Ngassam, RN, BSN, for being a spotlight for Black History Month! Learn more about her business, Inovativ Scrubs, on their website or visit her store in downtown Leesburg. Learn more about the Chamber’s DEIA Committee here.
Where were you born and raised and, if it was someplace else, when and why did you come to Loudoun
I was born and raised in Cameroon, West Africa. After moving to the U.S. in 2007, I lived in Germantown, MD with my family. In 2011, I met my now husband Alex who was residing in Ashburn. I moved to Ashburn a year later and have lived here since. Got married and started a family. Loudoun County has become more than just our residence; it is our cherished and proud home.
Tell us about your business, and how long you’ve been in your industry.
Inovativ Scrubs is a scrubs uniform shop. I’m a registered nurse who dived into the world of business. I graduated from Shenandoah University School of Nursing in 2015. My first job as a nurse was at Inova Loudoun Hospital. In 2021, I stepped away from bedside nursing and started Inovativ Scrubs.
How did you get into this line of work?
I remember right after I graduated from nursing school, I was looking for scrubs uniform for work. I went to the mall and could not find my size. This happened a second time when I was pregnant with my first child. I went to the scrub store in the mall and they didn’t carry maternity scrubs. I was so frustrated, I ended up buying my scrubs from Amazon. But that day I said to myself, Loudoun County needs another scrubs store. Here we are!
Have you had any special mentors or inspirations that guided your career?
I have had plenty of mentors throughout my career. However, my husband introduced me to the business world. My most recent mentor is Tina Johnson of the CEO Consulting Group.
What is the best part of your job and why?
I get to dress nurses and healthcare workers. I get to make them look and feel their best so they can take care of their patients in the best way possible.
What is it like doing business in Loudoun?
Loudoun County is small business-friendly and the community is exceptional. I’ve had the pleasure of connecting with remarkable and supportive people here, making the business journey far more enriching.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
Black History Month to me is a month of celebration where we unite in celebrating the remarkable achievements of Black Americans throughout our history, those who put their lives on the forefront for the sake of a better future.
Favorite things to do when you are not working?
I enjoy watching good action movies and spending time with family. I love dancing and traveling!
Thank you Viviane! Check out Inovativ Scrubs in downtown Leesburg or on their website here.