SAFPA's Youth Conference Brings Next Generation Leaders Together

"I have always believed that when you invest in young people, you are investing in the future of everything you have built."

• Dr Nomfundo Mcoyi-Zondo, President, SAFPA.

Fifty years after the youth of Soweto changed the course of South Africa, a new generation of young people gathered at the Hector Pieterson Museum on 24 June 2026 for the inaugural SAFPA Youth Conference. The conference brought together young professionals, entrepreneurs, students, and future industry leaders for a full day of reflection, learning, and honest conversation. The venue was filled beyond capacity, with attendees eager to engage with a lineup of renowned speakers and industry experts.

Delivering the keynote address was renowned entrepreneur, author, and grandson of former President Nelson Mandela, Ndaba Mandela. In a powerful and inspiring talk, Mandela challenged the delegates to embrace their responsibility as the next generation of leaders and change-makers. Reflecting on the theme of youth leadership, legacy, and enterprise, Mandela encouraged attendees to draw inspiration from the courage and sacrifices of the youth of 1976 while actively creating opportunities that contribute to South Africa's future.

One of the day's most profound moments came when members of the Hector Pieterson family joined SAFPA leadership and delegates at the Hector Pieterson Memorial Park for an unveiling ceremony. The family's presence served as a poignant reminder of the significance of the youth's role in shaping the country's history and future.

The conference also featured practical sessions on financial wellness, innovation, and technology, as well as spiritual grounding, equipping young delegates with the tools and thinking needed to lead in their profession and their communities. These sessions demonstrated SAFPA's commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in a rapidly changing industry.

As SAFPA continues to invest in youth development and leadership, the success of the inaugural Youth Conference signals a bright future for both the organisation and the next generation of funeral industry leaders.

In a statement following the conference, SAFPA President Dr. Nomfundo Mcoyi-Zondo emphasized the importance of investing in young people and the impact this has on the future of the industry and the country as a whole.

The success of the SAFPA Youth Conference serves as a testament to the power of collective effort and community engagement in shaping the future of South Africa. By empowering the next generation of leaders, SAFPA is paving the way for a brighter future for the funeral industry and the country as a whole.

The conference has sparked a renewed sense of purpose and commitment among the next generation of leaders, inspiring them to take ownership of their roles and responsibilities in shaping the future of the industry and the country. As SAFPA continues to invest in youth development and leadership, the impact of this conference will be felt for years to come.