Optimal Woman 2026

Dr Erika Drewes ( MMedFam Med, MBChB, Dip. Obst) is a Specialist Family Physician and Integrative Doctor with a special interest in women's health and burn-out. She is a very experienced clinician with a background in clinical research. She has completed several post-graduate courses in functional and integrative medicine locally and internationally. She is a member of the South African Integrative Medicine Society ( SASIM). She currently works in her private practice, Optimal Health, in Newlands, Cape Town. Erika loves listening to women's health stories and likes to bring improvement to their quality of life and wellness with her work. Erika believes that optimal health is possible for all women no matter their age or health challenges. Hormonal balance is a key ingredient of life beyond 40. In this workshop Erika will focus on this aspect and hopes to educate and give women the tools they need to improve their own hormonal wellness. She looks forward to welcoming you and sharing a special morning of learning, encouragement, and connection.

Dr Alexia van der Velde is an integrative medical doctor, mother and woman navigating the menopausal transition herself. With a special interest in functional medicine, she is passionate about exploring the connections between mind and body balance, as well as the deeper aspects of our human experience that influence health, healing and wellbeing. She aims to help women to understand the complexities within themselves and develop practical tools to thrive during the transitional years. Dr Alexia joined Optimal Health in 2025 and we are so pleased to have her part of the team. Alexia has a special touch when it comes to empathy and caring. She knows how to make people feel better. Come and check her out.

Stephanie Rouillard is a Dietitian Nutritionist dedicated to helping women reclaim their health through nutrition while rediscovering the joy of food. After graduating Cum Laude in Dietetics from Stellenbosch University, she pursued training modules in Functional Medicine and Nutrigenomics, equipping her with cutting-edge insights into personalised nutrition. In 2019, she established her private practice, now based in Newlands and Sea Point, Cape Town, where she consults clients locally and worldwide. With a focus on evidence-based, practical nutrition, Stephanie empowers women navigating hormonal changes to make informed food choices that support balance, vitality, and long-term well-being.

Izzy Ellis is a Health and Fitness coach with over 15 years experience. Izzy has a special interest in how women should be training in midlife considering hormonal changes, metabolic shifts and bone health changes. In her gym, Izzy helps countless women with the struggles of menopause and perimenopause achieve their goals with cutting-edge science backed fitness training. You are not going to want to miss this one!