Keitumetse “Gogo Ngwenyama” Mamabolo, a 40-year-old sangoma from Letlhabile, North West, has found a unique way to balance her spiritual calling with a career in the funeral industry. As an administrator at Bontle Ba Rona Funeral Services, she works closely with the dead, even accompanying bodies to gravesites. Her connection to both the living and the deceased is a profound part of her spiritual practice, and she believes that her ancestors, or amadlozi, fully accept her work.
Since starting at the funeral parlour in 2020 and graduating as a sangoma in 2023, Gogo Ngwenyama has navigated the challenges of working in an environment that involves death. Despite initial concerns that her spiritual guides might make her leave her job, she discovered that they understood and supported her dual roles. She maintains a routine of performing rituals both before and after work, seeking guidance and acceptance from amadlozi for her unique role.
However, her work is not always embraced by everyone in the community. Some people, particularly those who do not believe in or wish to receive help from a sangoma, have rejected her. Gogo Ngwenyama encourages people to recognize that izangoma, like everyone else, work in various fields, and their spiritual gifts do not limit their professional roles.
Despite these challenges, Gogo Ngwenyama is grateful for her position at the funeral parlour, which provides her with stability and a sense of purpose. The funeral parlour, she notes, does not discriminate and treats everyone equally. She takes pride in being part of a company that handles the dignified burial of the deceased and offers comprehensive funeral services.
