THANOS
BREAKING BARRIERS: DISABILITY
INCLUSION IN THE FUNERAL INDUSTRY
DISCOVER MAURITIUS
NEW NATIONAL FIAT-IFTA MEMBER
TRENDS TO WATCH
FILM & HUMOUR:
CHANGING THE DEATH CONVERSATION
113
MAGAZINE
1/2026
The World Organization of Funeral Operatives
17th International Funeral Exhibition
Düsseldorf, Germany
04/05/06 June 2026
Düsseldorf & Rhine River
www.forum-befa.com
info@forum-befa.de
Image fi lm:
Homepage
Visit us and enjoy your stay
record participation,
exhibitors & Space
75th anniversary
Dear FIAT-IFTA Members,
s I approach the final months of my term as
President of FIAT-IFTA, it’s hard to believe
how quickly the time has passed. Our General
Assembly and ICD meeting will take place this
October in Charlotte, North Carolina, alongside
the National Funeral Directors International
Convention & Expo. I truly hope you’ll be able to
join us, not only for the formal sessions but also
for the opportunity to reconnect, exchange ideas,
and strengthen the global bonds that make our
federation so special.
For those traveling from afar – or anyone
hoping to explore more of the region – there
is plenty to experience beyond the convention
halls. Our opening reception includes a visit to
the NASCAR Hall of Fame, but adventure seekers
may also enjoy the National Whitewater Center,
just a short 20-minute drive from Charlotte
Douglas International Airport. Nature lovers might
consider a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains
National Park on the western side of the state
or a visit to Asheville, on the edge of the region,
home to the historic Biltmore Estate. Closer by
is the quaint South Carolina town of Greenville.
If coastal scenery calls to you, the Outer Banks
offer beautiful views and the historic site of Kitty
Hawk, where the Wright Brothers made aviation
history. Also, the coastal town of Charleston is full
of southern charm. And if you don’t mind catching
another flight, Orlando’s world-famous attractions
– Disney World’s four theme parks and Universal
Studios’ three parks, including the new Epic
Universe – are less crowded in October and early
November. No matter what your interests, the
surrounding region offers countless opportunities
to unwind, explore, and enjoy time with friends
and family. I would be happy to give you more
ideas of where to go if you are planning more of
a vacation in the area.
I am deeply grateful for the warm hospitality
extended to me throughout my first year of travel,
and I’m looking forward to the year ahead. Our
FIAT-IFTA Board will meet in Düsseldorf, Germany,
this June during the BEFA Forum, providing
yet another chance to share perspectives and
advance our shared mission. This year has some
of the conventions that are held every two years,
so there are many opportunities for our members
to visit them. I believe your education should only
stop when you do.
One of the most meaningful parts of this role
has been learning about the diverse funeral
customs and cultural practices around the world.
Despite our differences, the universal human
experience of honoring and saying goodbye to
loved ones connects us all. How we do it may
differ, but the need to do so remains the same.
Serving in this position has reminded me that
compassion transcends borders, and our work
continues to shape a global community built on
dignity, respect, and shared understanding.
William C. Wappner
FIAT-IFTA President
William C. Wappner
FIAT-IFTA President
THANOS MAGAZINE
THANOS magazine, the official magazine of FIAT-IFTA
Editor-in-Chief: Katarzyna Supa, e-mail: fiatifta-magazine@thanos.org
Editorial Office: FIAT-IFTA – The World Organization of Funeral Operatives,
Pascallaan 24, 8218 NJ Lelystad – NL
Design & DTP: PRZECINEK.studio
All materials are copyrighted. Reprinting and use of materials require
permission from the FIAT-IFTA Office. Editors reserve the right to shorten texts
and change the titles of submitted materials. FIAT-IFTA Office is not liable
for the content of advertisements and promotional materials.
Feel invited to create the Thanos Magazine together with us and advertise your products and services: fiatifta-magazine@thanos.org
Photo from the private resources of William C. Wappner
PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVE
THANOS MAGAZINE | No. 113 – 1/2026
Let’s welcome new members
of FIAT-IFTA
We are happy to welcome 14 new members of our organization! Since November 2025,
we have been joined by 1 National Member, 5 Active Members and 8 Associate Members.
Please welcome:
National Members:
• Abu Alrayhanatayn W.L.L., Bahrain
Active Members:
• Elie & Sons International Repatriation, Mauritius
• Funerailles Informations (Fune Info), Côte d’Ivoire
• Hautaustoimisto Humat Oy, Finland
• Kalfrisa S.A.U., Spain
• Portland Cremation Center & Mortuary Services, USA
Associate Members:
• Bundesverband Bestattungsbedarf e.V., Germany
• Elie and Sons Limited, Mauritius
• Head and Wheble Funeral Directors, UK
• KASTEX s.r.o., Slovakia
• Letzte Ehre Bestattung Solothurn, Switzerland
• Ono Funeral Co. Ltd, Japan
• Pioneer Global Assistance (PGA), Egypt
• ROSY HOLDING LIMITED – Rosy International, UK
If you wish to learn more about each member please visit www.thanos.org .
If you wish to expand your network to enhance the global exposure
of your services, apply for FIAT-IFTA Membership by sending an e-mail
at info@thanos.org .
FIAT-IFTA Introduces a New Membership Certificate
As part of the ongoing renewal of FIAT-IFTA
memberships, we are proud to present the new
FIAT-IFTA Membership Certificate. The updated
certificate reflects the
organisation’s modern
identity and its continuous
development since its
foundation in 1970.
F e a t u r i n g
a
c l e a n ,
contemporary design, the
new certificate enhances
clarity, professionalism, and
international recognition.
It incorporates modern
security and verification
features, including a unique certificate number
and a QR code, enabling official certification status
to be easily validated online. Clear identification of
the awarded year, member
details, and official FIAT-IFTA
signatures further reinforces
its credibility.
This renewed certificate
symbolizes FIAT-IFTA’s
commitment to transparency,
i n n ov a t i o n ,
a n d
t h e
evolving needs of its global
membership, while honoring
the organisation’s long-
standing heritage and values.
4
No. 113 – 1/2026 | THANOS MAGAZINE
MEMBERS’ NEWS
eLys in Flanders:
Practical Guide for International
Funeral Directors
Starting January 1, 2026, a new procedure for reporting
deaths will be in effect in the Flemish part of Belgium.
When a death occurs in Flanders, all administrative
steps must be handled through eLys, the digital
platform developed by the Flemish government for
efficient, secure and uniform processing of death
files. This means that only registered companies
from the Benelux have access to the eLys platform.
All international funeral directors must work with a
Belgian funeral director. This guide gives international
colleagues a clear overview of what eLys is, how it works
and how to collaborate correctly with a Belgian funeral
director.
What is eLys?
eLys is the central digital system that brings all stages
of a death file together. It replaces older paper-based
procedures and ensures a fast and accurate workflow.
The platform is used by: physicians, local authorities,
the public prosecutor’s office, Sciensano, and licensed
funeral directors.
Through eLys, the following processes are managed:
• the death declaration,
• medical documents and certifications,
• the authorisation for burial or cremation,
• tracking and archiving of all official documents.
Access to eLys is strictly regulated. Funeral directors in
Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg can apply
for an account. Funeral directors outside the Benelux
cannot access the platform directly. For any death
occurring in Flanders, international funeral directors
must work through a Belgian colleague.
Working with a Belgian funeral director
International colleagues provide the required
information, while the Belgian partner handles the
full administrative process. A licensed Belgian funeral
director processes the full administrative workflow,
including:
• digital registration of the death in eLys,
• obtaining the authorisation for burial or cremation,
• requesting all required documents from Sciensano,
• uploading and verifying all necessary official
documents.
A local Belgian funeral director can be found via:
www.funebra.be
Fees and arrangements
For this administrative support, a fixed fee applies:
150 euros and 30,25 euro (the eLys system costs).
This fee covers only: the digital death registration,
obtaining the burial or cremation authorisation, and
requesting all necessary documents from Sciensano.
Any additional services are agreed upon separately.
Why is this collaboration essential?
Working through a Belgian partner ensures compliance
with Flemish legal requirements, smooth coordination
with authorities, prosecutors and medical services, fast
and reliable handling for families without administrative
delays. eLys centralises all steps, ensuring a secure,
structured and efficient process.
If you need support or have questions, please
contact a Belgian funeral director in the region
where the death occurred. Directory available at:
www.funebra.be
SAVE
THE DATE
2026 FIAT-IFTA GLOBAL CONVENTION
in conjunction with 2026 NFDA International Convention & Expo
25-28 OCTOBER 2026 | CHARLOTTE – USA
MEMBERS’ NEWS
Europe’s First Innovative Formaldehyde-Free Injectable
for Thanatocosmetic Procedures
The Polish funeral services market has seen the
debut of TanatoIn, a modern formaldehyde-
free injectable solution for thanatocosmetic
applications, developed and manufactured in
Poland. The product is the result of multi-stage
laboratory testing combined with practical
use in real-world thanatocosmetic conditions.
Its formulation has been designed to deliver
predictable and reproducible aesthetic outcomes.
The preparation was developed based on more
than 25 years of professional experience of
Adam Ragiel, a specialist in post-mortem body
preparation, post-mortem reconstruction, and
embalming, and President of the Polish Centre
for Funeral Education Ltd.(Polskiego Centrum
Szkolnictwa Funeralnego Sp. z o.o.), an Associate
Member of FIAT-IFTA.
According to information provided by the
manufacturer, FUNERCHEM, TanatoIn is the
first injectable preparation of its kind in Europe,
integrating advanced chemical solutions with
extensive practical experience in sectional,
embalming, and thanatocosmetic techniques.
The product has been registered and approved for
market use in accordance with applicable European
Union regulations. It holds all required notifications
and registrations, including PCN, ECHA, and the
UFI number S300-F0AR-P00G-G1HD, confirming
compliance with current legal requirements and
safe use. According to the manufacturer, TanatoIn
is currently the only legally registered product on
the Polish market intended for thanatocosmetic
injection that can also be modified for embalming
applications.
The preparation is intended, among other uses,
to reduce post-mortem lividity, improve tissue
hydration and tone, and restore a natural skin
coloration. Its concentrated formulation is designed
to achieve the desired results with a relatively small
volume of fluid.
The launch of this product reflects the growing
importance of technological innovation
and occupational safety within the fields of
thanatocosmetology and embalming.
Strengthening
Professional Bridges
One of the main objectives of FIAT-IFTA is to
strengthen professional relationships among
organizations and companies representing the
funeral sector worldwide. Cooperation between
National Members is an important element in
enhancing knowledge and facilitating the exchange
of experience within the profession.
The Hungarian National Member representative
of FIAT-IFTA, Balogh Károly, together with his
delegation, visited IVOSEP, the largest funeral
service company in Africa and a National Member
of FIAT-IFTA represented by Ms. Chrystel Malan, Vice
President & CFO.
IVOSEP has a proud history spanning more than
65 years and operates an extensive network of
funeral homes throughout Ivory Coast. Following
the passing of its iconic leader Mr. Augustin Sidy
Diallo in 2020 due to Covid-19, his son Mr. Yacine
Diallo assumed the presidency and continues to
strengthen the company’s regional leadership. He
welcomed the Hungarian delegation together with
Mr. Jean-Marc Affian, Strategic Manager.
The discussions between the National Members
were substantive and focused on opportunities for
further cooperation and information exchange.
We are looking forward to meeting both FIAT-IFTA
National Members during the FIAT-IFTA 2026
Convention, which will take place in Charlotte (USA)
from October 25–28, 2026.
6
No. 113 – 1/2026 | THANOS MAGAZINE
MEMBERS’ NEWS
Discover our
Sphere.
The Legacy That
Unites Us:
a piece that
honors life,
honors life,
preserves memory,
and celebrates the
bonds that
transcend time.
Scan the QR code
to learn more.
PANASEF 2026 Report:
Cremation Surpasses Burial in Spain for the First Time
The National Association of the Funeral Sector
PANASEF has presented the ‘Report on cremation
facilities in Spain 2026’ , which includes the updated
census of cremators in Spain. The report confirms
a historic milestone: in 2024, cremation surpassed
burial for the first time ever in Spain, reaching 50.11%
of final dispositions.
The study highlights key trends shaping the sector –
Spain remains the European country with the highest
number of cremators, while growth has stabilized
in recent years as older facilities are replaced with
new, more environmentally sustainable technologies.
It also sheds light on regional differences, rural
challenges, and the structure of local cremation
submarkets.
This essential report was made possible thanks to the
collaboration of PANASEF member companies and
manufacturers Atroesa, Facultatieve Technologies,
Ideter, and Kalfrisa.
Read the full “Report on Cremation Facilities in
Spain 2026” and discover the data, insights, and
conclusions shaping the future of cremation in Spain.
Cost Pressures and Consumer Change Reshape UK Funeral Market
Recent insights shared by the National
Association of Funeral Directors highlighted in
Funeral Director Monthly, reinforce a trend many
of us are seeing worldwide. Today’s families are
seeking greater transparency, personalisation
and involvement in the funeral planning process.
While traditional funerals remain important
for many communities, the UK is seeing a
significant shift – with over 50% of funerals
now led by celebrants. At the same time, direct
cremations continue to grow in popularity
due to their simplicity and affordability.
Costs continue to rise – for families and for funeral
businesses. The 2026 SunLife Cost of Dying Report
shows the average cost of a simple attended
funeral in the UK has reached £5,140, including
disbursements – a 5.3% increase year-on-year.
Additional “send-off” costs such as catering,
flowers, memorials, limousines and printed
materials now average £1,312. Around 65% of
funeral arrangers also use professional services
(most commonly solicitors) to administer
estate matters, with average fees of £2,635.
Regional differences remain significant,
with London the most expensive area and
Northern Ireland among the least costly.
Rising third-party and wholesale costs including
coffins, timber, energy, crematoria and burial
fees, and burial space availability are driving
overall price increases. Funeral businesses are
also facing higher taxes, increased employment
costs, inflation and wider cost-of-living pressures
– many of which are outside of their control.
Pre-planning plays a crucial role. Encouraging
people to plan ahead helps reduce financial
strain, ensures wishes are respected and eases
the burden on families at the time of death.
Planning guides, flexible payment options and
trusted funeral plans can all support these
important conversations.
8
No. 113 – 1/2026 | THANOS MAGAZINE
MEMBERS’ NEWS
FACULTATIEVE
TECHNOLOGIES
FT III CREMATOR
Over 140 years in the industry
Global market leader
24/7 global support
Average 20 weeks lead time
80-90 minutes average cremation time
Quick turnaround between cremations
Compact design with abatement
The most efficient cremators worldwide
info@facultatieve-technologies.com
+44 (0) 113 276 88 88
www.facultatieve-technologies.com
www.linkedin.com/company/facultatieve-technologies/
THE WORLDS MOST ADVANCED CREMATOR
Over 140 years in the industry
Global market leader
24/7 global support
Average 20 weeks lead time
70-90 minutes average cremation time
Compact design with abatement
The most efficient cremators worldwide*
info@facultatieve-technologies.com
+44 (0) 113 276 88 88
www.facultatieve-technologies.com
www.linkedin.com/company/facultatieve-technologies/
*40% less fuel consumption than previous generations.
BEFA FORUM 2026
75 YEARS OF INNOVATION
AND PROGRESS IN THE FUNERAL INDUSTRY
BEFA FORUM – the funeral industry trade fair,
was launched over 75 years ago in 1949 by the
German Federal Association of Funeral Directors
(BDB) at the ‘Ehrenhof Düsseldorf’. From 1970
onwards, the exhibition was held at the Düsseldorf
Exhibition Centre, initially every five years. Later,
the frequency was reduced to every four years.
The Largest and Most International
Edition in BEFA History
BEFA FORUM has developed into a mega-event
for the international funeral industry throughout
Europe. The anniversary BEFA from 4 to 6 June
2026 will be the largest and most international
BEFA FORUM ever and is one of the largest
trade fairs of its kind worldwide. For three days,
over 250 national and international exhibitors
will present their products and services in an
area of around 25,000+ square metres. "This
breaks our previous records – both in terms of
the number of exhibitors and the exhibition space,"
say Udo Gentgen and Stephan Neuser, the two
managing directors of BEFA FORUM Messe
GmbH. The interest of the public is likely to
be correspondingly high – more than 10,000
trade visitors from over 40 countries on all five
continents are expected.
Innovation, Sustainability and Market
Transformation
The exhibition spectrum covers the entire range
of innovative products and services. Classic
and modern funeral items such as coffins
and urns, funeral stationery, cemetery and
tombstone technology, decoration, vehicle and
equipment solutions, but also digital products
for administrative optimisation and customer
communication. The topic of animal funerals
will also be represented, because "the bond with
pets is becoming increasingly important for many
people, and so is saying goodbye to them," says Udo
Gentgen.
The funeral industry is also changing in Germany.
New materials, technical innovations and
sustainable concepts, as well as advancing market
concentration, are very important topics. The
wide variety of exhibitors will meet these visitor
expectations.
Global Industry Networking
The supporting programme of the trade fair,
running parallel to the exhibition, will once again
offer a comprehensive specialist programme with
04/05/06 June 2026
17th International Funeral Exhibition
Düsseldorf, Germany
10
No. 113 – 1/2026 | THANOS MAGAZINE
MEMBERS’ NEWS
lectures and panel discussions in 2026. Industry
experts will address important topics such as legal
changes, business challenges, digitalisation and
succession issues in funeral homes, and social
developments in dealing with death and grief.
Among other exhibitions, a special exhibition
entitled "150 Years of Cremation in Germany" is
planned as an additional highlight of the trade
fair, highlighting historical and cultural aspects of
what is now the most important form of burial.
Also included is the new mobile mourning stop of
the Culture foundation of the funeral Association.
The affiliated congresses will attract many
international guests: the European Cremation
Network (ECN) is holding its annual meeting as
part of the BEFA FORUM, which took place in
Greece last year and will be held on the Rhine this
time. Estimated number of participants: approx.
200 people. EFFS and the International Cremation
Federation (ICF) will also be holding their board
meetings in Düsseldorf at the trade fair and will,
of course, combine this with a visit to the fair.
FIAT-IFTA at BEFA FORUM 2026
FIAT-IFTA will have a strong and highly visible
presence at BEFA FORUM, supported by additional
exhibition space dedicated to the Manifesto
of Visibility and Voice project. This creates an
excellent platform to promote the initiative
and to engage directly with the international
funeral community. Visitors are warmly invited
to meet FIAT-IFTA representatives and Board
members, learn more about our activities and
discuss current challenges and opportunities
within the sector. The Board will participate in
the official opening ceremony on the morning
of 4 June, followed by the Board meeting in the
afternoon, ensuring FIAT-IFTA is actively present
and available for exchange, networking and
cooperation throughout the fair.
The list of international companies among the
exhibitors is long: visitors can look forward to
products and services from all over Europe and
even from Africa and China. There are a particularly
large number of international exhibitors this year,
reports trade fair director Udo Gentgen. “This time,
we are around 25 per cent bigger than the last BEFA
in 2022 – and that means really, really big. We are
very much looking forward to the trade fair.”
More information like exhibitors list and ticket
shop can be found at: www.befa-forum.com
See you at BEFA FORUM!
From left: Udo Gentgen and Stephan Neuser, the two managing
directors of BEFA FORUM Messe GmbH
Photo: BEFA FORUM Messe GmbH press service
THANOS MAGAZINE | No. 113 – 1/2026
11
MEMBERS’ NEWS
The global funeral profession will once again meet
in Bologna as TANEXPO 2026 returns from May 7-9
bringing together innovation, technology, design
and education to help businesses respond to
evolving family needs.
In three days, professionals will discover new
design concepts, breakthrough technologies and
partnerships shaping the future of funeral services.
More than 200 exhibitors and 14,500 professionals
from 65 countries are expected, making TANEXPO
one of the funeral sector’s most important global
networking platforms.
Food Experience
TANEXPO attendees will have the opportunity
to discover Bologna beyond the exhibition halls
through a guided gastronomic walking tour in
the medieval city centre. Participants will visit
historic local venues and enjoy tastings of Emilia-
Romagna specialties, including an Emilian-style
aperitif, traditional Bolognese dinner and artisanal
gelato. It’s an ideal activity for food lovers, culture
enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to experience
Bologna like a local. A special package including a
3-day fair pass and one Food Tour is available on
the event website for €150.
Tanexpo Plaza
During the three days of the trade show, an engaging
program of meetings will take place at TANEXPO
Plaza, the forum located at the heart of the event,
open to all attendees. The program will focus on key
industry challenges and emerging trends, offering
practical insights from leading international experts.
The program will range from new services, such as
aftercare, to cemeteries, to better understand the
new ways of experiencing places of remembrance,
and to crematoriums, discussed both from the
environmental sustainability perspective and place
of ritual and remembrance, where the farewell rite
can be enhanced and personalized. The meeting
program will soon be announced on the Tanexpo
website.
Tanexpo Tech
This special exhibition area dedicated to technology
companies will highlight digital applications specially
developed for the funeral sector: to manage funeral
homes, crematoriums and cemeteries business, to
organize and personalize the ceremony, through
funeral streaming, remembrance, memorials and
life tributes. During the three days of the event,
from the Tech area stage, digital companies will
present their technological offerings directly to the
visiting professional audience, who will have the
opportunity to attend presentations of the most
innovative solutions for the industry.
Tanexpo Awards
On Friday afternoon, May 8, industry excellence
will be celebrated during the TANEXPO Awards
ceremony at Tanexpo Plaza. The contest will
recognize exhibiting companies standing out for
Innovation, Quality and Design, Green Sustainability,
Best Stand Experience, Tech, and a new category:
Pets.
A foretaste of the next TANEXPO edition with the
exhibitors who have already registered is now
online. Keep exploring the latest previews from key
industry players and check out the Exhibitor List .
Online ticket sales are now open – secure your
place today and be among the first to discover the
latest innovations shaping the future of the funeral
industry.
See you at TANEXPO!
TANEXPO 2026
WHERE THE FUTURE OF THE FUNERAL INDUSTRY
TAKES SHAPE
This year, TANEXPO expands
beyond business with a unique
cultural and gastronomic
experience designed to connect
professionals in a more informal
and memorable setting.
12
No. 113 – 1/2026 | THANOS MAGAZINE
MEMBERS’ NEWS
LIGHT UP
7_9 MAY 2026
BOLOGNA ITALY
W W W . T A N E X P O . C O M
Organization:
BEXPO s.r.l.
Tel. +39 051 282611
info@tanexpo.com
ELEVATE YOUR ITALIAN EXPERIENCE
3 DAYS TRADE SHOW PASS + 1 FOOD TOUR
GET YOUR TICKET ON
WWW.TANEXPO.COM
DISCOVER MAURITIUS
MOURA – NEW NATIONAL FIAT-IFTA MEMBER
By Gino Lew Wai Hing, General Manager of MOURA, Mauritius
14
No. 113 – 1/2026 | THANOS MAGAZINE
MEMBERS’ NEWS
My name is Gino Lew Wai Hing, General Manager
of MOURA, the leading funeral service provider
in Mauritius, a small island in the Indian Ocean.
My journey into the funeral profession was
driven by a desire to bring innovation, structure,
dignity, and professionalism to a sector that
touches families during their most vulnerable
moments. Prior to my current role, I worked in
the hospitality industry, as well as diverse service
operations and other funeral companies. I have
always been passionate about building bridges
between tradition and modern service standards
creating positive emotions and experience for
clients. I now oversee a multidisciplinary team
that works closely with families, associations,
religious leaders, embassies, and global partners
to deliver high-quality end-of-life services across
the island and beyond.
Mauritius is multicultural with a population of
approximately 1.3 million people. The funeral
industry here is deeply influenced by religious
and cultural diversity. Hindu (Vedic, Puranic,
Telegu and Tamil), Muslim, Christian, Chinese,
and secular ceremonies are all practiced, with
strong community involvement in rituals and
customs.
The country has around a dozen licensed funeral
operators, a mix of traditional and modern
providers. There are over 100 cemeteries and
crematoriums, and the mortality rate hovers
around 9.3 per 1,000 inhabitants annually.
Cremation accounts for roughly 35–40% of all
dispositions, though this varies by community.
Most repatriations involve either the Mauritian
diaspora, students, tourists or foreign workers
from countries such as India, England, France,
South Africa, Bangladesh, Madagascar, Nepal
and China among others.
We cater to more than 300 funeral ceremonies
per month and have seen our market share grow
steadily over the past few years. Our mission is
Giving Comfort Taking Care, ensuring that every
family is cared for and comforted during the loss
of a loved one.
Five major challenges currently face the funeral
sector in Mauritius:
• Lack of regulation and standardization, leading
to inconsistencies in quality of service and
pricing across the industry.
• Lack of centralized government office to
announce death and do all paperwork.
Civil status offices are regionalized and for
cremation, paperwork needs to be done at 3
different places and can take half a day.
• There is a lack of new cemetery plots for burial,
especially in urban areas, requiring families to
shift toward cremation.
• Limited training and professional development
opportunities for funeral staff, particularly
in grief care, embalming, and international
standards.
• Limited access to affordable equipment and
accessories.
At MOURA, we have addressed these challenges
by investing in staff training (including grief-
stage awareness), implementing digital tools
for planning and client support, and creating
partnerships to raise professional standards. We
believe the most important aspect of a funeral
ceremony is the human factor. Customer service
is and will always be key to a funeral arrangement.
This is why we have a bi-yearly “Prayers by Moura”
event initiative offering multi-faith mourning
events with psychological guidance.
MOURA has over 25 vehicles, operates multiple
funeral halls, an operations center, a mortuary and
preparation center, and a dedicated repatriation
unit. We offer a wide range of services, including
repatriation, burials, cremations, religious
ceremonies, grief support, ash memorials, floral
arrangements, and the sale and installation of
granite tombstones and plaques. Our sister
companies handle floral arrangements, funeral
insurance, coffin manufacturing, and granite
tombstones. We also serve families abroad
through diaspora-focused packages and live
streaming of ceremonies.
By joining FIAT-IFTA as the National Member for
Mauritius, MOURA aims to align more deeply
with international ethics, improve our training
programs, improve our services, expand our
repatriation network, contribute actively to
global funeral Industry and serve the Mauritian
community better. We are honored to be part of
this worldwide community, and we look forward
to learning, sharing, and growing together.
Moura
www.mourafuneral.com
Contact us: gino@mourafuneral.com
THANOS MAGAZINE | No. 113 – 1/2026
15
MEMBERS’ NEWS
A LIFE IN HER HANDS
MICAELA DONGO AND THE POWER
OF A SINGLE SUBMISSION
By Alison Crake, Chair of FIAT-IFTA Global Education Committee on behalf
of members of the committee
When the Manifesto of Visibility and Voice
project began, its goal was simple yet profound:
to illuminate the lived experiences of women
working in the funeral profession, capturing the
threads of leadership, identity and resilience
woven through their stories. What we didn’t
expect was that the very first submission would
set the tone so powerfully.
That submission came from Micaela Dongo,
Commercial Director of her family’s funeral
organisation in Peru – an organisation with over
five hundred staff, multiple cemeteries, crematoria
and funeral homes, and a legacy rooted deeply
in community care. Her contribution, a single
evocative photograph accompanied by a short
piece of text, demonstrated with stunning clarity
that participation in this project requires no formal
artistic training, only honesty, reflection, and heart.
A Photograph That Speaks in Silence
Micaela’s submission centres on a simple yet
thought provoking image: the hands of her
boyfriend’s grandmother, taken when she was
101 years old. At first glance, it is a portrait of
age and tenderness. Yet, within the context of the
Manifesto, the photograph becomes something
far more layered – an exploration of legacy,
connection and the fleeting nature of life.
Those hands, folded gently, represent a century of
experience. They symbolise love given and received,
work done, grief carried, traditions lived and
passed on. In choosing this image, Micaela reminds
us that our stories do not need complexity to hold
meaning. Sometimes what is most familiar – what
we see every day – can become the most powerful
narrative when viewed through a thoughtful lens.
Creativity, Leadership and Grief:
A Personal Reflection
Though she now occupies a significant leadership
role, Micaela didn’t always envision a future in
the funeral profession. With a background in
PR, advertising, social media and hospitality
management, she gained early experience in
social media and marketing while working in
the United States. After returning to Peru, she
gradually stepped into the family business, which
she had previously viewed as something distant.
Joining Jardines de la Paz, opened her eyes to
the depth of humanity embedded in the work.
Surrounded by people who had served families
for decades – colleagues who had grown up within
the values of the business – she discovered a
sense of purpose rooted in community, continuity
and care.
This experience profoundly shaped her view
of leadership. In her submission, she reflects
on the paradox of life – its beauty, fragility and
unpredictability – and speaks of the importance
of leading with humanity. Leadership, she says,
should not be cold or overly formal. Instead,
it should be grounded in openness, trust
and respect. It must create space for grief,
vulnerability and compassion – not only for the
Micaela’s submission centres
on a simple yet thought
provoking image: the hands of
her boyfriend’s grandmother,
taken when she was 101 years
old. In choosing this image,
Micaela reminds us that our
stories do not need complexity
to hold meaning.
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No. 113 – 1/2026 | THANOS MAGAZINE
COMMITTEE NEWS
Micaela Dongo is the Commercial Director of Jardines de la Paz, the first Peruvian
organization dedicated exclusively to funeral services. Founded in 1990, by Julio Dongo to
professionalize end-of-life care in Peru, the company has expanded nationally under the
leadership of his son, Renato Dongo and now includes funeral centers, cemeteries, chapels,
wakes and comprehensive funeral services across Lima, Trujillo and Chiclayo. Micaela,
representing the third generation, leads a team of more than 500 dedicated professionals,
thereby ensuring continuity with the company’s long-term goals and values.
Author: Micaela Dongo, Commercial Director / Directora Comercial Jardines de la Paz, Peru
Translation of the text on the photograph: “Life is a brief thread: a minute, a fragment, an instant that can unite us
or separate us before disappearing. That swiftness taught me to look with greater intention, to value what happens
in silence. In my work, that awareness became a guide: observing, understanding, and analysing turned into my tools
for leading with humanity. We are everything and nothing at the same time; life is a paradox that demands living with
intention without taking ourselves too seriously.”
families served, but also for the staff who walk
alongside them.
Good leadership, Micaela suggests, is deeply
connected to the ability to understand and
support others through their hardest moments.
Her submission embodies that perspective with
clarity and grace.
The Creative Spark Behind
the Submission
Despite the emotional resonance of her piece,
Micaela says that her process was natural and
unforced. Art has always been part of who she
is – photography, especially, has long been a way
for her to communicate meaning beyond words.
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COMMITTEE NEWS
She often works in mixed-media collage and
expressive imagery, and this existing inclination
made the Manifesto call feel like an inviting space
rather than an intimidating one.
Importantly, she already had the photograph of
the hands before reading the brief. It was taken
spontaneously, with permission from the family,
during a quiet moment. When she later read the
Manifesto’s submission guidance and thought
about the key themes which encompass both the
emotional and practicalities of the work of those
in the funeral profession, the image resurfaced
naturally in her mind.
The accompanying text flowed quickly.
Together, image and words became a deeply
personal reflection on life’s transience and the
responsibility that comes with guiding others
through loss.
A Message to Other Women:
“Don’t Be Afraid”
One of our concerns, identified early in the
Manifesto project, was that women might
hesitate to participate because they worry their
contribution needs to be highly artistic, highly
polished, or lengthy. Micaela dismantles this fear
with gentle honesty.
Her advice is simple:
• You don’t need to be an artist.
• You don’t need professional photography or
design skills.
• You don’t need to write poetry or a lengthy essay.
What matters, she says, is looking inward and
speaking from the heart about your experiences
as a woman in the funeral profession. Whether
your submission is a photograph, a paragraph,
a sketch, a memory, a symbol or something
you notice in your everyday work, “something
beautiful will come from simply being and
expressing yourself.”
Her message is one of freedom and courage:
create without fear, without overthinking, and
without assuming there is a right or wrong way.
Every submission is valuable because every
woman’s story adds to the richness of our
collective voice.
Why Micaela’s Contribution Matters
Her work demonstrates that even a single
image and a short paragraph can hold immense
emotional weight. It also shows that the
Manifesto of Visibility and Voice is not a technical
contest or a showcase of artistic prowess – it is
a human project. A project about identity, truth,
experience and connection.
As the first submission to the Manifesto,
Micaela’s piece becomes a touchstone for others.
It proves that authenticity is more important
than complexity. Simplicity can be profound.
And the lived experiences of women in the
funeral profession – whether they are leaders,
support staff, drivers, arrangers, celebrants,
administrators, or any other role – are essential
threads in a much larger story.
For the full submission guidelines and to
register your interest in the webinars, please
contact me at alison.heritage@thanos.org .
Submissions for "A Manifesto of Visibility and Voice"
will close on 31 March 2026, with each individual
able to submit up to three works.
What matters, is looking
inward and speaking from the
heart about your experiences
as a woman in the funeral
profession.
Manifesto of Visibility and
Voice is not a technical contest
or a showcase of artistic
prowess – it is a human project.
A project about identity, truth,
experience and connection.
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No. 113 – 1/2026 | THANOS MAGAZINE
COMMITTEE NEWS
THE FUTURE OF THE
FUNERAL INDUSTRY
By Mylena Cooper, Second Vice President of FIAT-IFTA,
CEO of The Diamond and the Vaticano Group, Brazil
As Second Vice President of FIAT-IFTA and CEO of the
Vaticano Group – renowned in Brazil for its innovations in
the funeral sector – I have had the privilege of spending
the last 22 years traveling the world on technical visits
and participating in numerous international exhibitions
and congresses. These experiences have given me a
unique perspective on the evolution of the funeral
industry, highlighting the importance of blending
tradition and innovation to meet the changing needs
of families.
Three main challenges ahead
One of the main challenges is sustainability. The
growing demand for eco-friendly funeral practices, such
as green burials and the reduction of chemical use in
embalming, requires industry adaptation. Furthermore,
urbanization leads to a shortage of traditional burial
spaces, encouraging the development of vertical
cemeteries and cremation. Another challenge is
meeting the emotional needs of grieving families
in an increasingly digital world, balancing technology
with human-centred approaches.
Trends to watch
Several trends are reshaping the global industry:
• Green Funerals: The adoption of biodegradable urns,
forest burials, and reduced use of formaldehyde
reflects rising environmental awareness.
• Digital Transformation: Online funeral planning
and live streamed ceremonies are becoming more
common, allowing families to participate from
anywhere.
• Technological Integration: Artificial intelligence and
virtual reality offer innovative ways to personalize
ceremonies, for example, mapped projections and
holograms can create immersive and meaningful
tributes.
• Inclusive Support Systems: Funerals are increasingly
emphasizing community and emotional support,
with spaces for grieving children, pet memorial
services, and active presence on social media for
continuous care.
Strategic investments to be made
Investing in technology and sustainability is essential.
Companies should develop digital platforms for
funeral planning and grief support while integrating
eco-friendly practices into their services. Creating
multifunctional spaces based on neuroarchitecture
principles can provide a comforting environment for
families. Tools such as aromatherapy, therapeutic
sound frequencies, and immersive chapel projections
can enhance the funeral experience.
Evolving family needs to consider
Today’s families seek meaningful, personalized
ceremonies that honour their loved ones in ways
that reflect their values. Shorter but more intense
ceremonies, custom tributes, and inclusive spaces
welcoming children and pets are increasingly in
demand. Supporting grieving families now requires
not only traditional services but also ongoing
community engagement through human and pet
support groups.
International influences on Europe
Global innovations in digital and eco-friendly
practices are significantly influencing Europe. The
rise of artificial intelligence in the funeral industry,
such as AI-generated tributes and digital memorials,
is setting new precedents. Similarly, the growing
adoption of pet memorial services and cremation-
adapted spaces in countries like the United States
and Brazil may inspire European markets to explore
similar offerings.
The funeral industry stands at a crossroads where
tradition meets innovation. As professionals, our
mission is to ensure that families feel supported,
comforted, and empowered to honour their loved
ones in ways that reflect their values. By embracing
sustainability, technology, and emotional inclusivity,
we can create a future in which every life is celebrated
meaningfully and every farewell becomes a tribute
to love and legacy.
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No. 113 – 1/2026 | THANOS MAGAZINE
FUNERAL TRENDS
THE FIVE GLOBAL
CHALLENGES
By Juan Rodríguez, CEO Grupo Gayosso, founder and director of
the international academy of senior funeral management
of TEC de Monterrey
In a world that changes faster than it grieves, the
funeral services industry stands at a critical crossroads.
As we face demographic shifts, evolving social values,
and exponential technological development, the
global funeral profession must address five urgent
challenges to remain meaningful, sustainable, and
human. These challenges are not theoretical – they
are existential.
1. Our Future Lies in Our Past
In recent decades, funeral rituals have increasingly
suffered from a sterile minimalism, stripped of their
symbolic power. Yet societies across the globe are
rediscovering the profound importance of meaningful
farewells. The funeral service of the future will not be
defined by efficiency alone, but by its ability to evoke
memory, identity, and respect. This means reviving
the dignity of ceremony, the emotional resonance of
ritual, and the cultural specificity of farewell customs.
True innovation lies not in replacing the past, but in
dignifying it with contemporary meaning.
2. Owning the Relationship:
From Pre-Need to Immediate Need
Families no longer want to navigate a maze of
intermediaries. Funeral companies must directly
serve both pre-need and immediate-need markets,
offering integrated solutions like funeral pre-
planning, final expense insurance, and real-time
assistance. The key is to build trusted relationships
long before the service is required. In doing so,
we become life-long partners in anticipation and
resolution – providers of peace of mind, not just
logistics.
3. Technology With a Human Face
Artificial intelligence, automation, and digital tools
can revolutionize operations – but only if used
to enhance, not replace, the human connection.
Funeral providers must embrace data science
and tech economics, creating seamless customer
journeys while maintaining empathy at every
touchpoint. From AI-generated memorials to
virtual grief counselling, the successful funeral
homes of tomorrow will be both digitally smart and
emotionally intelligent.
4. Emotional Services That Heal
The bereavement process cannot be rushed, nor
can it be solved by a checklist. Families increasingly
seek services that offer psychological, spiritual,
and emotional support – before, during, and after
the ceremony. From grief therapy and memorial
personalization to storytelling workshops and legacy
platforms, the value we bring lies in healing, not just
burying. Emotional value is no longer optional; it is
a competitive and ethical imperative.
5. Value-Driven Excellence:
Beyond Operational Logistics
Funeral services – whether for people or pets – must
transcend the perception of being mere logistical
providers. The only antidote to commoditization is
perceived excellence. Families must feel that they
are receiving something exceptional, intimate,
and irreplaceable. Only then does price become
a secondary factor. Operational competence is
assumed; emotional and symbolic impact is what
differentiates.
The global funeral industry is not just navigating
new waters – it is re-charting its entire course. To
remain relevant, we must balance tradition with
innovation, technology with tenderness, and price
with perceived value. These five challenges are not
problems – they are opportunities to redefine our
profession for the better. Because in the business
of farewells, only those who understand the value
of presence will have a future.
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FUNERAL TRENDS