About us
Our story
A Compassionate Partner in Times of Need
Over the years, TBFS (The BEST Funeral Society) has refined its core value proposition into two primary service areas: Underwriting Management and Policy Administration
As a specialis underwriting mmanager, TBFS delivers expert consultancy and product development service tailored to the low-income insurance sector. Our ooferings encompass the full product lifecycle, including:
- Initial product design and actuarial pricing
- Ongoing risk assessment and monitoring
- Premium allocation and split structures
- Monthly reporting and premium cession processing to the underwriter
As a policy administrator, TBFS is able to configure systems, load products and perform monthly policy administration of its own, or other insurance products.
Losing a loved one is one of life’s greatest challenges. At TBFS, we extend a helping hand of compassion, offering reassurance and support when you need it most. We’re here to guide you through difficult times with care and understanding.
We are one of the largest independent administrators, often chosen for:
Providing white-labeled and tailor-made group funeral administration and benefit solutions. Placing our bulk-buying power and knowledge at the disposal of our policyholders to give them better prices and value for money. Full Membership and claims handling capability, with embedded call centre facilities. Our state of the art technology and vast database allowing for the identification of potential claims fraud. Fully geared to deal with low premium Insurance in the emerging market.
Our Purpose
"Altruism supported by Heroism"
TBFS partners with emerging, low-income communities to deliver the micro-insurance they deserve.
We achieve this by:
- Offering cost-effective insurance products and value-added benefits tailored to lower-income markets;
- Providing efficient, streamlined insurance policy administration to the industry;
- Continuously enhancing our products and services to meet evolving client needs;
- Delivering exceptional service and meaningful benefits to our clients;
- Driving enhanced returns for our shareholders while creating real value for our customers.
We are committed to providing efficient, affordable funeral insurance with unmatched dedication, serving all members of our communities—regardless of race or class—as enshrined in the Constitution of South Africa.
Our Core Values
TBFS Core Values
At The BEST Funeral Society (TBFS), we are committed to serving low-income markets with affordable, compassionate, and efficient insurance solutions. Our values, inspired by our mission and enriched by timeless principles of integrity and accountability, guide every interaction with our clients, partners and team. These values reflect who we are and how we deliver on our promise to be The Best.
- Serve with Courage
We face the challenges of supporting grieving families and meeting tight deadlines with calm, honest, and compassionate service. Courage means standing by our clients through difficult moments, ensuring their needs are met with empathy and professionalism.
- Take Pride in Every Task
From accurate premium allocations to swift claims payouts, we deliver clean data and reliable service. Pride in our work ensures every policyholder receives the quality and care they deserve, reflecting our commitment to excellence.
- See It Through
We complete what we start, ensuring no task, whether resolving unallocated funds or finalizing claims, remains unfinished. Our dedication to follow-through builds trust with our clients and partners.
- Do What’s Right
When a beneficiary needs urgent support or a process requires extra effort, we step up, whether it’s taking on another role or making a late-night call. Doing what’s right ensures our clients’ needs are met, no matter the challenge.
- Be Firm but Fair
We uphold policies, such as arrears management, with consistency while treating every client with dignity and understanding. Fairness ensures we balance operational discipline with compassion for our low-income market.
- Honor Our Promises
Our word is our bond. Whether it’s a commitment to a policyholder, Intermediary, or partner, we deliver on time and in full, fostering trust and reliability in every interaction.
- Champion the TBFS Name
We protect and elevate TBFS’s reputation by putting our members first and addressing issues proactively. Protection of the brand means safeguarding the trust placed in us by our clients and communities.
- Communicate Clearly
We value clear, concise communication, sharing facts and next steps without unnecessary complexity. This ensures our clients and partners receive straightforward, actionable information every time.
- Uphold Integrity
Some things are non-negotiable. We never compromise on underwriting standards, compliance, or ethical practices to chase short-term gains, ensuring long-term trust and sustainability.
- Draw the Line
We act swiftly to prevent fraud, data abuse, or unethical practices, protecting our members and partners. Knowing where to draw the line upholds our commitment to accountability and safeguards our clients’ interests.
Alignment with TBFS’s Mission
These values align with TBFS’s mission to provide cost-effective insurance products, efficient policy administration and recognizable benefits to low-income markets. They reflect our passion for tailored group funeral solutions, our expertise since 1997 and our dedication to improving customer value and Shareholder returns. By embedding these principles, we ensure our services, such as Vehicle Access Benefit, Body Repatriation, and Double Accidental Benefits, deliver meaningful impact to our clients.
Our Commitment
TBFS’s core values are not just words; they are the heartbeat of our operations. They guide how we administer policies, develop bespoke products and structure financial services like joint ventures and cell captives. By living these values, we continue to be a trusted partner for emerging markets, delivering affordable, compassionate and reliable insurance solutions.
Shareholding
TBFS shareholders are 51% Intsikayomdeni (Pty) Ltd and 49% Mocking Bull Holdings (Pty) Ltd
The combination of Hollard business support and insurance expertise together with the core business experience and focus of the executive management, have resulted in TBFS emerging as a leading group funeral specialist.