Leoni qualified with a B.Sc (Physiotherapy) from Freestate University in 1997 and has practiced physiotherapy every day since – we're almost sure she’ll get it right one of these days!
She worked in private and hospital practice in South Africa where her work focused around sport and paediatrics. The practice was closely involved with two professional rugby squads. In 2000 she moved to Canada where she practiced physiotherapy in both Ontario and British Columbia. In 2001 she was off to Scotland where, for the next four years, she worked as a Physiotherapist with the Edinburgh University’s Sport Injury Clinic. During this period she was exposed to the newest developments and research in physiotherapy.
Leoni currently has one husband and two kung-fu kids... who are growing up waaay too fast! The family lives in the ever-expanding seaside village of Hermanus in the Western Cape where they enjoy their house, the beach, fynbos walks, trail running, and yes - mountain biking!
Elmarie grew up in Richards Bay. After school she took a few detours studying music, speech therapy and audiology before finally immersing herself in the wonderful field of physiotherapy.
Elmarie ventured straight into Neurological Rehabilitation after completing her community service and, for the next 10 years, really loved working in close-knit teams at various acute, sub-acute and long term rehabilitation centers in Gauteng.
After starting a family - and having a few babies - Elmarie realized the need for further study in the field of Woman’s Health. It has been a great journey discovering ways to help woman and mothers who struggle with various (and varying) conditions, from urinary conditions to constipation in children.
Elmarie comes with extensive experience in physiotherapy and joined the Leoni Viljoen Physiotherapy team at the end of November 2020 and has already integrated her knowledge and bubbly personality to the mix of the team.
When not working, Elmarie spends time with her husband and 3 young kids where they enjoy bodyboarding, hiking, cycling and cooking together. “None of these we are very good at or make enough time for, but we do love it!” she says.
Elmarie also sews and has a children’s clothing line.
She has been very excited about joining the team - and has contributed so much already - and we are happy to have her on board!
Nicole is the newest member of the Leoni Viljoen Physiotherapy team!
Originally from Brits in the North-West Province, Nicole studied and obtained her BSc Physiotherapy degree from The University of the Free State. From there she was off to Mpumalanga where she completed her community service year, before relocating to Hermanus. Four provinces in almost as many years!
Nicole lives the “being active” ethos so pervasive throughout the practice and enjoys playing hockey, hiking and outdoor activities - which makes Hermanus such an ideal local for this phase of her life and career. As a child she was a gymnast and dancer and knew from an early age that she wanted to become a physiotherapist. Her other great love is the arts and music and she has mastered the skill that is the violin.
Nicole enjoys all aspects of physiotherapy in both the hospital and private practice set-up, with a particular interest in orthopaedic and sport conditions, as well as working with babies and small children.
Nicole is a vibrant and dynamic addition to the team and is thrilled to be able to ply her trade so close to the ocean!
