SELEMELA FUNERAL SERVICES LAUNCHES IN GRAND STYLE

Mr and Mrs Selemela cutting the ribbon to their world-class chapel as guests witness history

By Simon Makgoga

Selemela Funeral Services (SFS) launched in grand style last Saturday, as Greater Tshwane communities, visitors from Tembisa and guests from as far as Potchefstroom and Bloemfontein converged to witness history.

The day began with Mr and Mrs Selemela cutting the ribbon to the purpose-built chapel.

A giant marquee was filled to capacity, with top security, caterers, entertainers and roaring bikers all in place.

Apa Selemela posing with one of the oldest clubs, Vukani, spawned by the Ikageng Women’s Club (IWC)

The spectacle – Abel Moyane leading his Pretoria Serenaders Male Voice Choir at the grand launch

This is more than a launch. It is a legacy in motion.

It all began with Masechaba Podumo – Mother of the Nation. Born and raised in Ikageng, Potchefstroom, she championed her community and founded the Ikageng Women’s Club (IWC), a burial society built on dignity and unity.

She bought her brother Apa Isaac Selemela a suit identical to those worn by IWC members.

Founder and President of SFS, Apa Selemela, flanked by his staff in radiant uniforms, addresses the packed marquee

At her funeral, he stood in that suit and saw her members dressed the same and realised she had been grooming him to take over.

The Pretoria Serenaders Male Voice Choir serenaded the marquee from early morning.

Member Boikie Pholo, famously known as Raitlhwana from the Setswana TV drama Lesilo Rula, added extra flame.

SFS Founder and President Apa Selemela said: “I told my wife I have a vision of a mortuary she said I am not fit for this business as I scare easily.

Both the chapel and mortuary are more than ready to serve with distinction. Our dedicated, qualified staff are on standby to demonstrate a caring and dignified purpose.”

He added that the current staff complement of six will increase as the organisation expands.

Operations Manager Zachariah Machaka echoed him: “Honouring every life with care and dignity runs deep in our veins.

With our sophisticated fleet and cutting-edge mortuary, we assure a professional send-off like never seen before.”

Vibrant bikers and the flashy VIP fleet, led by Machaka, later paraded through Soshanguve’s main streets.

Among those moved by the occasion was Mildred Matanya, an unemployed health studies graduate from Hammanskraal, who said she hopes SFS will absorb her into its growing team.

Gospel stars Bishop Jonas Masotla, Tebogo Moloi and Kenny Z delivered heavenly melodies, while DJ Jannie Boy kept the crowd on their feet.

Greater Tshwane has not just welcomed a funeral parlour it has witnessed a new standard.

With its world-class chapel now open for hire and creating local jobs, SFS has truly arrived.