Elizma de Klerk is a seasoned healthcare professional with a passion for infection prevention and control. Currently, she serves as the IPC (Infection Prevention and Control) Manager at a private hospital in Paarl, Western Cape, a role she has held for six years. She began her nursing journey in 2003, immediately after completing her secondary education, and qualified as a General Nurse Practitioner in 2005. She holds a Diploma in Nursing (2007) and a Diploma in Nursing Administration from the University of Stellenbosch (2014). She has further enhanced her expertise with an International Postgraduate Diploma in Infection Prevention and Control (2022) from Radboud University and ICAN. Elizma is driven by a passion for empowering frontline staff, particularly cleaners, to take ownership of their critical role in infection prevention. Her ongoing project, “Improving Cleaning by Empowering Cleaners,” aims to educate, acknowledge, and uplift cleaners, recognizing their vital contribution to patient safety. Through this work, Elizma seeks to create a culture of appreciation and respect for these unsung heroes.