The top-performing staff members of Marindi Funeral Scheme were honoured with certificates and trophies for their hard work at a gala dinner held at the Mountain Inn Hotel on Saturday, 7 December.

Marindi Funeral Scheme has rapidly gained a strong foothold in the local market, offering vital support to families during times of bereavement.

During the event, employees were recognised in various categories. The winners were as follows:

* Best Sales Representative of the Year: Ms Lorraine Ramaano (second and third prizes went to Maria Sadiki and Beauty Ramusheu).
* Best Administrator of the Year: Tshifhiwa Sebola.
* Best Grave Builder of the Year: Duncan Nthai.
* Best Assistant Worker of the Year: Comfort Monyimfodi.
* Best General Worker of the Year: Tinash Makunde.
* Best Employer: Vhulenda Matshavha.
* Best Team of the Year: Builders Team.
* Most Committed and Disciplined Employee: Nathaniel Ndlovu.
* Manager of the Year: Todney Manaka.
* Directors’ Special Award: Mashila Khalushi and Tshililo Mphelo.

The guest speaker at the gala dinner, Vhamusanda Vho Vhathundimapfura Sinthumule, said that the awards were given to staff members who provided exceptional service to clients. “Employees are rewarded based on what clients perceive as quality service at the company. This includes accessibility to care, good communication, and ensuring safety and comfort,” he said.

Sinthumule also urged the Marindi team to maintain close relationships with traditional leaders. “We face a big challenge in educating our people about investing with the right companies,” he said. He praised Marindi for its commitment to supporting the community and emphasised that the company was not about quick riches but sustainable development.

“We are proud of these entrepreneurs who put Vhembe District on the map,” he said. “You can never go wrong by investing in Marindi Funeral Scheme because one development leads to another.”

Marindi Funeral Scheme’s director, Mr Kaizer Marindi, said the awards aimed to recognise employees who went above and beyond in their duties. He expressed pride in the company’s ability to provide an income for many local residents, with 60 jobs created across its five branches in Vhembe.

The company currently operates branches in Louis Trichardt, Madombidzha, Ravele, Tshikwarani, Bochum, and Bungeni. Mr Marindi affirmed the company’s commitment to delivering the highest quality service to clients while contributing to community development through various upliftment projects funded by a portion of its profits.