27-07-2025
Nomfundo Mcoyi-Zondo honoured as the first woman president of SAFPA
THE Icebolethu Group chief executive, Nomfundo Mcoyi-Zondo who's the first woman president of the South African Funeral Practitioner Association will be honoured in a ceremony today at the Durban Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Conference Centre.
TRIBUNE REPORTER
In a pivotal moment for the South African Funeral Practitioners Association (SAFPA), Nomfundo Mcoyi-Zondo will be honoured today in Durban for her unprecedented election as the association's first female president in its 25-year history.
This momentous occasion underscores not only her dedication to advancing the funeral industry but also her role in championing gender equality within the business sector.
Today's celebration at the Durban Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Conference Centre, will bring together a host of dignitaries, funeral industry professionals, and special guests, reflecting the widespread recognition of Mcoyi-Zondo's accomplishments.
The founder of the Icebolethu Group, she has transformed her company into an internationally recognised brand that boasts a multinational footprint across various sectors, including travel, tourism, and catering.
Mcoyi-Zondo's election as SAFPA president is particularly significant, marking a watershed moment in the organisation's history.
Her journey in the funeral industry reflects her commitment to uplift and empower others.
Just a month after being elected during a fiercely contested national conference in Sun City, she announced the acquisition of burial land along the M1 highway in Mariannhill, designed for the benefit of Icebolethu clients.
In addition to her leadership roles, Mcoyi-Zondo's Icebolethu Group recently launched Icebo Labantu, a reality show that premiered on SABC1 on Sunday evenings.
The show addresses the needs of families grappling with the loss of loved ones, showcasing genuine stories of grief and healing.
Hosted by Thembisa Mdoda-Nxumalo, the show highlights how Icebolethu provides crucial funeral services, ranging from transportation and catering to tents and coffins, ensuring families can honour their loved ones with dignity and respect.
The Icebolethu Group, in a recent statement, celebrated Mcoyi-Zondo's presidency as a milestone in promoting gender equality and African excellence, stating, "The tribute will honour her accomplishments and the general development of the funeral industry in South Africa, serving as a symbol of empowerment and cultural pride."
Mcoyi-Zondo, who previously served two consecutive terms as chairperson of SAFPA in KwaZulu-Natal, accepted her new role with a clear vision: 'I am honoured to be trusted with the responsibility to lead such a powerful organisation. I ascend to this role with a full understanding of the expectations that members have of us as the new leadership. We are committed to serving with honesty and building a SAFPA that will add value to their businesses.'
Joining her on the SAFPA national executive committee are key figures such as Deputy President David Maklein (Free State), Secretary-General Monageng Legae (Gauteng), Deputy Secretary-General Selwyn De Vries (Western Cape), Treasurer Luvo Titi (Eastern Cape), Public Relations Officer Thabo Banda (Gauteng), and Skills Development & Training representative Nape Masenamola (Limpopo).
