Dr E. Lourens graduated from Stellenbosch University Medical School in 2014. Following the completion of her internship and community service, she served as a Medical Officer and head of the Outpatients Department at a district hospital in the Eastern Cape for four years, until November 2021.

In 2023, she obtained a postgraduate qualification in Sport and Exercise Medicine from the University of Pretoria. Her passion for sport began early in life, having competed at both provincial and national levels as a middle- and long-distance runner. Maintaining an active lifestyle remains central to her personal and professional ethos, and she began competing in triathlons in 2023, embracing the physical and mental challenges of the sport.

After relocating to Gauteng in December 2021, Dr Lourens completed a clinical fellowship in Sport and Exercise Medicine under the mentorship of Professor Jon Patricios, concluding in December 2022. She currently practices as a Sports and Exercise Medicine Physician at Waterfall Sports and Orthopaedic Surgery.

Dr Lourens has a special interest in women’s health and mental health within the context of sport and exercise medicine. Her expertise has been recognized at the international level, having served as the team doctor for the New Zealand Women’s Cricket Team during the inaugural ICC U19 Women’s Cricket World Cup in January 2023. She has continued in this role with the White Ferns, including throughout the ICC T20 Women’s Cricket World Cup in 2024, where the team emerged as world champions.

I have always valued the profound privilege of connection and consider it an honour to be part of someone’s journey. This remains one of the most meaningful aspects of my work.

In the field of Sport and Exercise Medicine, my approach involves confirming a diagnosis—or at the very least, helping the patient move closer to one—while actively working toward resolving the issue. A key element of sustainable recovery and long-term health lies in identifying and addressing contributing factors or underlying causes of the problem.

I welcome challenges in all areas of life, including my professional practice. This mindset encourages me to look beyond the obvious and consider alternative perspectives in pursuit of the best possible outcome for each patient. I value collaboration with colleagues and the exchange of diverse viewpoints, as this often leads to more comprehensive and effective treatment strategies. The process of deeper exploration not only benefits the patient but also contributes to my own growth as a clinician.

I am truly excited to join the dynamic, interdisciplinary team at Off Nicol Health, Wellness and Rehab. Being part of such a collaborative environment allows for continuous feedback, fresh insights, and collective problem-solving—all of which serve our shared goal: helping patients return to full function and optimal health.