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South African entertainment icon Zodwa Wabantu, known for her daring persona and unconventional career moves, has made headlines once more. This time, she's transcending from the glitz of the celebrity world into the somber realm of funeral services. Zodwa, who has never shied away from controversy or pushing societal boundaries, has ambitiously opened a chain of funeral parlors named Zwide Unique Funerals, signaling a surprising but passionate pivot in her eclectic career.
In an unexpected turn, this 38-year-old South African provocateur has read the room of her community's needs and answered with a solution that resonates with her desire to uplift those around her. Zodwa Wabantu's venture into the funeral home business isn't a mere diversification strategy; it's a heartfelt move toward servicing underprivileged communities - a noble reach that springs from her upbringing in Soweto.
Zodwa has structured Zwide Unique Funerals with a mission to provide accessible and reliable end-of-life services to her community, addressing the nuances and necessities of the locales they serve. Her strategy includes support for clients with lapsed insurance policies and undocumented individuals - crucial services for communities often relegated to the sidelines of attention.
Already operational across six branches, with locations in Soweto, Orange Farm, Katlehong, and Newcastle, Kwa-Zulu Natal, her business employs 22 individuals dedicated to providing comprehensive funeral services. These offerings range from burial plans to post-mortem reparations, groceries, and benefits, among others. Zodwa triumphantly outlines her blueprint for growth, strategizing around expansion, improved feedback mechanisms, and innovation.
While her new career path may seem worlds apart from the entertainment industry, Zodwa remains unfazed by the polarity of her professional choices. She addresses any skepticism or raised eyebrows with her trademark confidence, emphasizing her commitment to providing joy and service, whether on stage or in helping a family during their time of loss.
In her conversation with Drum Daily, Zodwa Wabantu reveals a meticulous and caring side seldom seen by the public, ensuring that her legacy is marked not only by her dynamic stage presence but also by her genuine dedication to community empowerment and service.