Navigating the Future of a Legacy Business

Welcome to Episode 01 of the Between Meetings Podcast! In this thought-provoking conversation with your host Aphiwe Khambule and her guest, Mr Khambule (also her dad), sit down to discuss the business’s origins, early challenges, and growth, including navigating the COVID-19 pandemic. The conversation highlights the importance of client-centred values, adapting to technological change, and balancing family with business.  

Mr Khambule shares insights on leadership transition and his hopes for the company’s legacy under the next generation. The episode offers a candid look at sustaining a family business and the lessons learned across decades of service.

 


⏱ Timestamped Overview 

01:18 – Introduction and welcoming Mr Khambule. 
02:19 – The Origins of 21st Century Funeral Services. 
04:24 – Early Business Struggles and Breakthroughs 
06:36 – First Milestones and Corporate Partnerships 
10:16 – Branch Expansion and Industry Influence  
13:21 – Sustaining the Business Through Challenges 
15:23 – Client-Centred Values and Business Philosophy 
19:23 – Transition to the Next Generation
19:54 – Family Involvement and Legacy Building   
23:17 – Navigating Family and Business Boundaries  
23:38 – Adapting to New Technologies and Generational Change   
27:10 – The Evolving Funeral Industry 
29:02 – Leadership Expectations and Future Vision 
33:01 – Reflections on Second-Generation Pressure 
36:06 – Lessons Learned and the Importance of Planning 
38:01 – Continuous Learning and Embracing Change   
40:11 – Learning from Each Other and Team Input   
41:30 – Fatherly Advice for Next-Generation Leaders 

💬 Quote of the Episode 

“'When I get a client saying to me, “Thank you very much,” that makes me so happy.” – Mr Khambule 
 


🌐 Connect with 21st Century Funeral Services 

🔗 Website: https://21stcfs.co.za/  
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/official21stcenturyfunerals/  
📸 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@21stcentury_funerals  
📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/21stCenturyFuneralServices  
📘LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/21st-century-funerals/  
📘 X: https://x.com/21stCentury_KZN