Isaac Selemela, in his office in Block T, Soshanguve
By Simon Makgoga
She called it Ikageng Women’s Club – IWC – named after their home in Potchefstroom, North West, the platinum province.
Masechaba Podumo, loosely translated “the mother of the nation”, founded the burial society with a vision bigger than herself.
Today, that vision lives on in more than three societies, including Vukani in Tembisa, where Masechaba once resided.
David Mlambo, SLM’s longest-serving employee, hard at work and showing dedication in every detail
Earlier this year, her brother Isaac Selemela expanded his reach.
The creative business owner invested in a full suite of classic catering equipment: mobile toilets, food warmers, and a bar to service social and corporate events.
But it was his sister’s burial society that stayed with him.
Serving every moment! SLM’s events equipment for social, corporate, happiness and bereavement needs
That memory pushed him to source mortuary equipment for dignified send-offs.
From here on, it is only a matter of time before the well-structured Selemela Funeral Services SFS becomes operational, with dedicated staff already on standby.
Leading operations is Zachariah Machaka, who brings extensive experience in the field.
A thousand thanks to founder Masechaba, and to Isaac Selemela for carrying her torch and taking it higher.
Her vision and mission have been accomplished even the heavens, it seems, sing songs of praise.
The story of siblings Masechaba and Isaac is touching, inspiring, and remarkable.
Every year, IWC collaborates with legal experts to teach members about drafting wills and avoiding future family disputes.
Advocate Kedibone Gama ensures members leave each session with practical knowledge.
The easy-going Isaac wears many hats. With qualifications in policing and accountancy, his career began as a police trainer.
After 24 years in uniform, he traded the badge for Selemela Recycling Waste SLM.
The company collects bottles, cardboard, and plastics, putting bread on the table for 26 people across day and night shifts, including seven truck drivers.
Along the way, his sister bought him a suit for monthly society meetings.
When she passed, he attended her funeral in that very suit and saw members wearing the same.
That is when it hit him: she had been grooming him to take over.
Today, he carries her legacy with quiet pride.
A devoted Christian and member of St Laurence Anglican Church, Isaac supports _Legae La Bana children’s home.
He backs local initiatives such as Golden Hockey Club.
Recently, children at NOSA’s early learning centre celebrated an early Christmas with food parcels, toiletries, and treats.
The Khonani 78 Foundation, which grooms boys and girls in sport, received whistles, medals, and R1,000 in cash.
Local gospel artists including Kenny Z also benefit from SLM’s support.
Still touching lives and poised to make a lasting difference, Isaac proves that one person’s legacy can build two nests.
A recycling company by day.
A funeral service by calling.
Both rooted in dignity, service, and love.
The nation says: Salute to Isaac Selemela – the man who turned his sister’s suit into a suit of armour for his community.
For more information:
SLM Recycling Waste: 078 788 5588
Selemela Funeral Services: 076 200 9832.
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